Log home building class: student feedback and testimonials

After attending our log home building class many students emails us, and tell us what they thought about the experience.

We have posted a small sampling of these unsolicited emails. In their own words, our past students will tell you if they liked the class, if they thought the instructors good, if the information they received was useful and valuable, et cetera.

There are literally hundreds and hundreds of testimonials posted here, which is just a small fraction of what we have in our archive.

Thank you both. The class was more then I could have ever imagined. Truly priceless. Your mission to teach the right way and the vision of financial freedom will live for centuries through the seeds you plant at each class.

I am already taking steps to start the first log home. I will have many good stories and pics of my future log homes thanks now to you guys.

I really enjoyed the class. I told a friend today about the class and the log home I want to build and the ballpark figure I’m figuring on.

He couldn’t believe it!!! He doesn’t see how it’s possible. He and his wife are getting ready to go into debt for God knows how many years on her dream of sticks LOL. Sticks have corners just like the box he’s got to get his mind out of.

Thanks Again and God Bless, Marcus Ward

P.S. The pines here in North Louisiana are “longleaf” heavy, but very strong and fairly rot resistant. According to the forest dude I talked with yesterday the average height of one with an 18-20″ base stem is about 100′ !!!!!!!!

thanks so much for your great presentation of the material. I am now beginning the process of assessing whether or not the land I own 2 hours out of the city is worth building on or to buy other land. I’ll stay in touch with you and steve.

I didn’t get a chance to thank you after the class because everyone else was talking to you. I just want to thank you and Steve for doing such a good job teaching the course. It was definitely worth my time and money. Keep up the good work!

Many thanks for another great class. Just the momentum I needed to make my final “go with logs, do it yourself, do it now decision”. Spent the morning cruising timber on snowshoes, will probably start falling in a week or so-pretty exciting stuff.

just a few lines to thank you once again for all the wealth of interesting and useful knowledge you have passed on to me, during the last week-end.

I wasn’t looking forward to travelling so far away in order to learn this particular skill, but in the end the choice was Seattle or nothing, so that has made it an easy choice, and so be it. ( I am still recovering from the jet lag ).

America ( and the world ) needs many more Americans like you guys, so keep up the good work ( but try not to shoot everything that moves, ok ? )

I commented to Steve on the way home that it was amazing we could sit through 22 hours of lecture and remain so perfectly attentive and alert (it would’ve never happened in a college course). We’re excited to get started planning our log home and can’t wait to get into the member’s section.

Purely as a reminder so you can place me – I’m the airline pilot you signed up for the class 12/13 May,

somewhat late in the game. I did attend the class this last weekend. I was very impressed.

There was one point of humour – at the end of the class Steve mentioned he flew to Tokyo quite a bit, and that I have probably flown him. I hear this frequently, even when not true. However it did turn out that I was indeed the Captain on Oct 20th last year, since we flew about 1:20 out along Vancouver Island, before having to turn around with a major malfunction. It was hard for either of us to forget that flight!

Thank you for the quality and quantity of information received in the Log Home Builder’s class last weekend, (April 28th & 29th). I appreciated the details of the class due to being a detail person. I came away from the class with confidence in the knowledge received from your course.

It has always been a desire of my heart to have the ability to build a home for my family. Your class has fulfilled that desire. I now am able to use that knowledge to bless my family. I not only can acheive the dream of building a log home for myself but, I can share that knowledge with my son, enabling him to pass it on to my grandchildren; an excellent legacy.

Travis is all energized to start looking at the stock plans and start looking for cheap land. Travis’s boss has found cheap land in the penny savers and on Craig’s list, too.

I want to thank you for telling us about Craig’s List, because I found a job opportunity on there the day after class and it looks like I might be getting an interview for that. I would have never looked up jobs on there, so thanks for mentioning that website!

We will definitely be out for the member’s meetings, we’re only 1 h 40 mins away! Look forward to discussing log homes on the forums!

I used Craigs list to buy a washer and dryer (like new) and saved myself $1200. Your class has already paid for itself and my wife was quite pleased to say the least. We never heard of Craigs list before your class.

Just a note of thanks to both of you for the April 4-5 class (from one of the guys sitting in front). You don’t need to worry about me asking for my money back… it was worth every penny.

Your advice is gold – it really helps those of use who are not rich families that are trying to get away from 30-yr mortgages. I hope in 2 years (enough time to collect all my materials cheaply as possible) to begin building my first log home.

I attended this weekends class and it was everything the website claimed and then some. The class was great and everything was taught in a way that was understandable to the non-builder such as myself.

Thanks for all the information. I can’t wait to get started. I would like to access the members only section of the forum.

We just got home to single digit temperatures in Michigan, but even that can’t dampen our enthusiasm after attending the LHBA Class this weekend. We learned so much – now we just have to sort it all out and figure out how to achieve our dream.

Could you please activate our access to the Members Only Section?

Thanks so much! We look forward to learning even more from the other members through the Forums.

I enjoyed the class and got what I wanted out of it. It is easy to sit and listen to someone tell you how to do something as opposed to doing it yourself but listening to someone who knows is the first step. My plan is to take a least a couple of years to get ready and do some planning per your recommendations and that is all I have time for at the moment.

On an amusing note, my wife thought I was at a kit log home building seminar. I think she misunderstood the whole concept and I think most people do.

After seeing Skip’s place I understand the no pictures rule. Thanks for putting on the class, I enjoyed it.

I didn’t get a chance in class to tell you thank you very much for putting on such a great class.

I have a lot of constructions experience so part of the class was pretty basic for me, however it cleared up all of the detail things that came to mind as I was imagining how to build a but & pass house.

I attended the class on Jan 13th and 14th, I was the short little blond girl sitting at the front 🙂

Thanks to both of you for doing such a wonderful job teaching the class! My boyfriend Andrew and I really enjoyed our time there and have absolutely no regrets about taking your class, it was worth every penny and then some! We can’t wait to get started.

I just wanted to thank you again for the class. It is empowering. I feel like I should go out right now and get some logs! I appreciate the guidance to be smart about it and to take some time, gather the stuff that is needed and to do the building right.

Just wanted to thank you for a really great class, it was worth every penny! I’m back in Kazakhstan, everything is going ok except I’m back at work which basically sucks. I wasn’t really thinking about building a log house here, but now I am; I’m going to have some people start searching out some properties in the mountains and if I can find something affordable I’ll go for it. I’ll keep you posted. Hope your all your ventures are successful, stay in touch!

This past weekend was quite an experience for me. I attacked this class with an open mind having done my homework before I got there….you filled in all the missing pieces. I have no doubt that I can do this…. and I will.

It must be gratifying to look into someone’s eyes when they say “thank you”….you really do make a difference.

Thank-you so much for allowing me to attend. I know that was the best money I have ever spent on any education I have received EVER!

I feel like a new person and I look at everything with clearer eyes than before I attended. You, Steve, and Skip are good people for what you are teaching and I would like to say Thank-you for having me into your family home and giving me more than any Institution has ever given me since I started grade school, A means to become free from mortgages and all other monthly payments. I stopped along the way back home to see the property I bought, and I can see the potential for the first time.

All the best to you Ellsworth, and thank Steve for me. Talk to you soon.

We wanted to tell you thanks for the incredible class last weekend. Since finding your website, while looking at log cabin kits, our thought process has been outside the box. We have thought about opportunities and options that were not even thought of a few weeks ago. Your website, the 2 day class and workbook are extremely empowering. They give a person a wide variety of possibilities. We anxiously anticipate the future of log home building.

In the strange environment that we live in where people want to blame their problems and inadequacies on some one else. We wanted to thank you for taking the risk and teaching a class like this. We know it would be a great deal easier to just build homes and keep to yourselves. So thanks for taking the time to share your knowledge and expertise so we could begin to dream the dreams that we have had the past few weeks.

I honestly cannot thank you enough for the tons of good info. I can’t believe how much you guys crammed into 2 days. I must admit to being quite skeptical when arriving, but am truly astonished at what my boys and I learned! Thanks again!

Also I was quite impressed with every aspect of the class. I have taken a ton of training and education classes in a number of subjects and I honestly believe you guys put the most into two days possible with no wasted time or info.

It was also done well enough that my two boys, Sean – 18 and Andy – 12, could learn and interact with both of you and other students as well. Neither one will allow me to sleep now until we build something out of logs. Andy wants to take his savings out and buy a Swede hook! How many 12 year olds now a days would spend their savings on log home building tools as opposed to video and computer games?

Anyway, thanks again and if you are ever out East, please contact us and we would be glad to put you up and/or show you around the Baltimore/Washington D.C. area.

I just wanted to say thank you very much. The class was exactly what you advertised and more. Which is getting harder to find these days. It was worth every penny.

I come from an extensive construction background and I’m known as somewhat of a critic. The methods and techniques you teach are extremely sound and everything makes sense. I would like to encourage anyone that is even thinking about taking the class to not hesitate.

My husband and I attend the Log Home Builders Class 14-15 January 2006.

We’re getting started and finally are getting lined up (clearing and excavation begun on our WV property) and would like to get access to the members only section of the forum.

We didn’t have the opportunity earlier, but want to let both of you know how much we enjoyed the course. Truly eye opening. You made it sound so simple (hard work but not difficult), and laid everything out in such an organized fashion that we were impressed (not easy to do since I’m a scientist and hubby’s an engineer)!

Many thanks for such an enlightening course. We’re eager to build and have a get-away from the hectic life in the DC area.

I have to say guys the class was everything it was billed to be. You do a wonderful job and I must say thank you.

We got back to FL this morning, just in time for a hurricane of course, and we’re ready to start building tomorrow. We talked about the class the whole way home. I was discussing the class with my sister and she’s so excited that I think she will be taking the class in the future with my other sister.

Let me begin by thanking both of you, Ellsworth and Steve, for the awesome experience you gave me at last weeks class.

It is a rare occasion when someone will share their knowledge to help others in the generous and thoughtful way that you do. Your efforts will help make a long awaited dream of a REAL home come true for my family.

I took the April 8th and 9th 2006 — the two most eye-opening days I’ve had in years and the mark of a new beginning.

Thank you both for an absolutely amazing two days. You two had fed my appetite and re-stoked the boilers — I was at a standstill as to how to do this — knowing that there was a way but just not sure how to proceed – the course solved that. Thank you for all the additional time you spent answering questions and Ellsworth, thanks for your guidance — I have already made adjustments to my plan as a result.

I couldn’t sleep last night – I sat down at my computer and reworked the design creating options A, B and C as a result of what I have learned – and what you explained to me. That does not mean its less elaborate as a design but the adjustments made simplify the design if that makes sense…

I will keep you posted and cant wait to read the forums and learn more.

I want to personally thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience with me and so many others. I have spent many hours (years?) with my seat planted to the seat of various chairs and I have rarely been in the company of such gifted teachers.

Now that was a weekend well spent! I really enjoyed attending your class! It was totally awesome! Thank you! You guys have really enabled me to move in a very positive direction. I am sincerely grateful.

Your friend,

Jeremy Paddock

—– Original Message —– From: Ted Marcy Follett To: Ellsworth Sent: February 10, 2006 7:00 PM Subject: Log Home Class: Thank You! I would like to thank you for the class.

I set on buy a kit until you explained why this was a bad idea. I feel you saved us from a nightmare from hell. My wife and myself got so much out of the class that just saying thank you really falls short of what we really would like to say, but thank you very much for the opportunity of attending and seeing your place..

Thanks again for every thing. Friends always,

Ted Marcy Follett

—– Original Message —– From: Ian Haynes To: info@buildloghomes.org Sent: February 5, 2006 00:51:47 Subject: access to members forum Hi Ellsworth and Steve- Thank you for putting on a very informative class. You guys did a good job of packing a lot of information in two days.

The class was great my son and I really enjoyed it. We look forward to getting started this spring on our home.

I would like to get access the members only sections of your website. In particular I am interested in trading labor in the Tennessee area and finding the best deal on materials. I attended class on January 14th and 15th.

Thank you for offering so much for our membership. We took your seminar last February with Steve White, which was extreamely informative. Since then the staff has been ever so willing to respond to our naive questions with respect and straight forward answers. I’m sure we will have more in the future.

Ellsworth, I just wanted to tell you thanks. You and Steve put on an outstanding class last weekend, and I feel like I can do this Log Home thing without a hitch now. I have a couple of friends that will be attending your class next month after I shared some of what I learned from you.

I wanted to thank both of you gentlemen for a great class last Wednesday and Thursday. The class was extremely informative and empowering. If everything goes as plan we will be starting on our log home next spring.

When you get a chance please activate my login to be able to access the members forum.

Thank you Soooooo Much! I haven’t sleep much since the class, because my mind is so full of ideas. I feel so confident in building a log house and I thank you (Ellsworth & Steve) also Skip. I hope you can visit us in Nevada so please keep in touch. We hope to visit Skip in Cebu because we are curious to what he has done in Philippines. Anyway I know I am part of a special group thank to your sharing of such valuable information.

You and Steve did a great job last week!!! It looks like I will have an easier time building my log home than I will have getting a loan to make it happen. I am truly looking forward to this journey!!!

Just got in (spent a few nights at Wallace Falls) and got your message. Thank you for a very unique seminar. Since I have had experience in the various phases of construction, as well as being in different geographical locations (Florida, New York, Oregon, California, Illinois and a few more), I found your information and the detail you presented quite incredible not to mention the Workbook you provided (that’s a compliment). Hopefully, I can make the transition from stick built to logs.

Douglas

—– Original Message —– From: Vern and Sara Street To: Ellsworth & Steve White Sent: September 17, 2005 8:25pm Subject: Log Home Class: Thank You! Hey guys! Yes, we are home safe and sound, but thoroughly exhausted! Our flight was delayed for one hour leaving Seattle, so we didn’t get home and to bed until 1:00 a.m. You’d think after all day to talk on the plane, sitting in the airport, etc., that we would have fallen into bed immediately, but we couldn’t stop talking!

We had a great time and really enjoyed the school! You two are good teachers, kept everything interesting, and boredom was not an issue! When we have time to regroup in a day or two we’ll probably go ahead and order the CD on the basic plans.

We went out this afternoon and just walked around the property – deciding where to put the house, the chicken house, etc. We should be getting to close on our land (10 acres), hopefully on Monday, so we can roll up our sleeves and get going! Of course, the first thing we have to do is pack everything to move into storage to be out of this house by Oct. 17th – that’s the closing date for it. We already have a couple of good leads on surplus building materials that we scouted out today, too!

Again, thank you for everything! We told everyone from the clerk at the Best Western to the rental car guy that they should take your school!

I just wanted to take a minute to say thank you for the great class, it was very enjoyable, and I learned a lot. I also wanted to thank you for the refund for the person who could not make it. I am sorry for the inconvenience, and I know you could have filled that spot. It is much appreciated for the way you conduct business, and good to know that people are still understanding and not so worried about the almighty dollar. Thanks again, and I hope to see you soon and send in photos of my new cabin.

Greetings, Dixie and I made it home safely though to snow once again… We both enjoyed your class and found it very beneficial. Dixie made the comment on the way home that it was a very good thing that we attended as I am the type to start doing something and then try to correct the mistakes as I go… she said that if we had not gone to the class we would have ended up in a pile of sticks. Once again thank you both very much for your time and effort to put on an exceptionally well put on and thought out program… the best to both of you and your families.

Andy Lancaster and Dixie Walker

—– Original Message —– From: Michelle and Trent Herbert To: Steve White Sent: April 11, 2005 4:16 PM Subject: please add me to member’s forum Hello Steve and Ellsworth, Thank you for the class! I hope my children will be able to attend (my youngest is 10 mths old)! My user name is tmhburley98 and I attended the class on April the 9th. The weekend was everything that I had expected it to be and much, much more! I have been looking forward to attending your class for 2 years. I will certainly recommend it to all my friends and family. Thank you for all your insights into a free and adventurous life. I know my family will have an inheritance and enjoy finacial peace for generations to come. I will see you at the meeting!

We are already busy making plans for Craig’s escape from the 9 to 5 (or 9 to 8, most days). Your build-one-sell-one-build-another plan will allow him to “retire” early.

We intend to follow your training as closely as we can. We have tons of notes, and are very grateful that you covered everything in such detail! We feel confident that, with your instructions, we can build a mortgage-free cabin that will last. For us that means we can finally get out of the rat race!

Thanks also for answering so many questions in such a straightforward manner. That made the experience so much more valuable.

You’ve supplied the missing pieces of the puzzle we’ve been working on for years. You have shown us the tools to help Craig bust out of the corporate grind and breathe the free air! (chain saw and block and tackle!)

I enjoyed the course very much and enjoyed your teaching styles. I found the building methods straight forward, logical and practical. I appreciated your sharing of values on freedoms, building strategies and real life situations. Already started collecting more tools my second day back. The next big step for me is buying some land. The wife and I need to check-out Colorado.

We just completed your 2 day class with Ellsworth and Steve and we had a blast! We got a lot of very practical info and some great political commentaries, as well! We had fun, took lots of notes (which I definitely plan to turn into a log cabin), loved the food and enjoyed looking at your log homes.

Thank you so much for allowing us to be guests in your home.

We will keep you all informed of our log home progress, and are excited to be card-carrying log home builder association members!

Thank you again for the fantastic methodical, step-by-step “Log Home Extraordinary” 22hr session! My hand was sore from the notes, but my “Heart” was a blaze!! I have never been so excited; I only hope to send more students your way!! I like so many others, who see the amazing “Value” of this extraordinary opportunity – I will direct folks to the [web] site as frequently as I can!!

Thank you Ellsworth, for your kindness and patience!! Now the Journey Begins!! I feel confident to build form the foundation to the top of the RPSL!!!!!!!!

Just wanted to sign up for the newsletter. Thanks again for the great class. It was the best money I ever spent. You are a great teacher. It’s hard to believe you could pack that much information into 2 days. Talk to you later.

I just wanted to drop a quick note to say thank you and Steve. It was refreshing to attend an informative class that actually leaves you feeling as though you can accomplish something without having to invest more into it.

I found your talks to be very informative, and very much based in “common sense” (not always the case). I have already located a friend that has 20 acres of former Werehouser (?) land, and is more than willing to cut “houselogs” for me for free.

Isn’t it amazing what can happen when you open your mind to ideas and processes outside the box.

First of all, GREAT class. You ROCK Dude. I have been planning to build a log home since I was 10, no kidding. As you can guess I have been reading and researching about everything. You basically answered all of my unanswered questions that I had except one.

How in the heck do I start building homes full time NOW. I have this strange sickness that urges me to cut anything down that is tall and round and build something out of it. This includes trees, telephone poles, fence posts, lamp posts, etc. I am finding it very hard to keep my mind on work, just want to build log homes.

I would like to say thank you for putting on the May 1st and 2nd class at your dad’s property.

I learned a lot, I have been going over my notes for the past week trying to re drill it into my head. I’m sure there will be something in the future that I will be emailing about but for the time being I think I got it. I have already started doing my drawing for a small building already and then next onto the model. Will send off a picture when I get to that point. Not sure if it will be ready for the July evening meeting but will try and make it nonetheless.

I just wanted to say thanks for your hospitality and for the quality of the information that you imparted to us. It was more than worth the trip from Daytona Beach to attend the seminar on 12 June, 04.

I was very impressed by the quality and the amount of information you were able to disseminate in the course of a weekend. I learned so many new things about building in general and log homes specifically.

The one thing I really took to heart was the ability of just a few people to build a home, which allows the freedom from debt and worries so that a man can live and breathe more freely in our screwed up society.

The day our home is finished, we will be throwing a freedom barbecue and all of you are invited to help us enjoy the feast. You have my sincere thanks!

Thank you guys so much for the class on September 25th and 26th. I can’t say when I have enjoyed a training session more. O.K., I admit my desire to learn was peaked, but your teaching style really helped me with getting all of the information down. I sincerely appreciate your ability to impart the information I came there to get. I wrote about 45 pages of notes during those two days and feel I can now go out and build one for myself. I am sure I will have questions as I proceed with this project, but I am confident I can learn and succeed.

At age 20 I dreamed of building my own log home but didn’t have any direction to accomplish it. Now, at age 50 I know I can realize the freedom of having my own paid for log home that I build myself. Thanks so much for opening up Skip’s home for the class and helping me to have both an educational and enjoyable experience. I look forward to including myself in the ranks of “Log Home Builder.”

I wrote you a couple of month’s ago about taking your class in the Philippines, but decided against it fearing that I would never finish what I need to do here before going to the Philippines. I did, however, take the class of June 12-13, and was awe-struck by the organization and detail that went into the preparation.

Both Ellsworth and Steve did a superb job in the presentation of the massive amount of material, and it has given me a new hope and self-confidence about what I now believe that can achieve. I am already building models.

Concerning the course, I used to say that the $100 that I spent on a competent house inspector in buying my first home was the best $100 that I ever spent. Now that I have taken your course, I can say that it is the best money that I have ever spent. It was really worth my time to see the pit falls of log home kits.

So, thanks again for sharing your knowledge with us. I look forward to visiting (or joining) you soon in the Philippines.

Take care,

Bill

n.b. You won’t have to pay me for my spare rib lasagna. It was great!

Maria and David Brown attended our class on February 28th and 29th, 2004, taught by our instructor Steve. They sent us this amazing story when they arrived home from the class: —–Original Message—– From: Maria and David Brown Sent: Tuesday, March 02, 2004 2:12 PM Subject: Thank you!

Hi Skip, Hope all is well in the Philippines. My husband David and I just returned from the February 28-29, 2004 class. We want to express our deepest thanks for the generous use of your home for our class. Being able to actually spend time in your home really solidified my desire to build our own home. What a powerful feeling it is to know that we can do it. It was truly a remarkable experience.

Steve was an excellent instructor. Eric was also of great assistance to us and both of them were extremely knowledgeable. Mike was very helpful and I’m sorry that we didn’t get a chance to meet.

I think that we were destined to come to your class. David and I were ready to spend $250,000 to build our kit “dream home.” I was actually online researching log home construction loans when the search engine brought up your website. After reading everything I could and seeing some of your student’s websites I approached David and asked him to read everything with an open mind. He did and agreed that it was worth our small investment to take your class.

We are now actively planning on building our own home and will keep you all updated on our efforts.

Once again, I cannot emphasize enough what a wonderful experience we had.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Maria and David Brown

Jeff Geddes from eastern Canada attended our class on February 28th and 29th, 2004, taught by our instructor Steve. This is what he had to say about his experience: —–Original Message—– From: Jeff Geddes Sent: Tuesday, March 02, 2004 12:19 PM Subject: Log home class

Hi Steve!

Just a quick note to tell you how much I enjoyed the seminar. I’m having a hard time finding words to describe it, I feel it was that powerful, a life-changing experience. You’re a great teacher. The people that I met there were wonderful, they feel like family and now I understand why you always sign your emails with “your friend”. When I build my loghouse I hope you will be able to visit and see it, at the very least I will send pictures. We may even be close geographically as I expect I will build on the East Coast of Canada. One more item, could you update my contact email, as the one you have on your records now is my work email and I’m already planning my escape!! Thank you so much Steve for the great experience.

Your Friend, Jeff John Stadler and his son Dylan took our class on February 7th and 8th, 2004. —–Original Message—– From: John Stadler Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2004 7:16 PM Subject: Class

Hi Steve,

I just wanted to let you know how much Dylan and I enjoyed the class. You did a really great job, so THANK YOU!

Driving home, we were talking about all the different possibilities and getting pretty stoked. Before the class, I had serious doubts about me being able to do something like this, but the way you explain the process, I’m thinking ‘hell yes’ I can do it! Very cool :~>

I also enjoyed this diverse group of people, and like you said, all very nice people. Everybody has a different way of looking at things, so people ask questions I wouldn’t have even thought to ask. Another bonus. I just have to tell you (like you didn’t know) the price of the class/membership is such a gift. Taking your class might just be the best thing I ever did for myself.

Anyway, I’m hoping to get started on my own project this spring or summer. When I do, I’ll keep you informed as to my progress.

Thanks again, John Stadler

From the University of Washington’s Experimental College (307 HUB, FK-30), Susan Anderson, Director; “Dear Skip, Congratulations ! Your classes have been receiving excellent reviews from your students. We appreciate your efforts to provide students with a quality learning experience and we value you as one of our top teachers. Enclosed you will find copies of your student feedback forms. We feel that the strongest praise our office can extend is contained in the remarks made by your students in these pages. We hope you will find them useful and rewarding. Our congratulations to you for doing such a fine job. We appreciate your support and are proud to have you as part of our team. Keep up the good work, Sincerely, Susan Anderson, Director”

From Gerald Yeager; “I am writing in regards to a class I took at the University of Washington Experimental College this winter quarter. The class was called “Log House Construction” (Course #2757). Let me just say in sincere honesty that this was the best damn class I have ever taken from any instructor which is connected with the University. The Instructor, Skip Ellsworth was the best example of a truly sincere and most willing instructor I have come across yet. If it sounds like I am building the class and the instructor up for some sort of recognition, I am. He deserves it. And let me thank you for offering such a course.

From Dave Walker; “Skip, I could sit at this computer for the next ten years and not find words adequate to express the impact that you and your teachings have had on me. From the bottom of my deep dark cavernous heart, I thank you. Next summer when I return to the Seattle area with my wife and two sons, I want to come by and see you. I want to be able to say to my sons at least once in my life, “You are about to meet a truly great man.” I thought the world was a pretty cool place before I met you, but I even like it a whole lot more now. Take care, my friend. I look forward to our next meeting.”

From Joey Pischer and Mike Moyer; “Mike and I just wanted to let you know that we both enjoyed your log house class very much and are recommending it to lots of our friends. Personally, in all my years of college, I have never learned so much in any course as I have learned in yours – which speaks highly of your teaching ability.”

From Jeff Kensmoe; “I found Skip’s class to be an island of straight-forward honesty in a world of deception. His sharing of knowledge about life, as well as log homes, is like a breath of fresh air. I know in two days he has touched my life from now on. His practical, simple method of setting yourself free is worth any price. I thank him for showing me the path to my own strength and freedom.”

From Christopher Heinlein; “I have had lots of schooling, formal and informal. Your style is the best. I know it cannot be separated from who you are, as well. I appreciate your teaching of principles, the sharing of good examples, and keeping the field open to all possibilities. I know that not even you can teach common sense or integrity to someone, but at least you give people a kick in the right direction, and you make them “think” about it. During your class I found that I actually had no questions at all when I just listened. PS. I’ve seen all kinds of scams (political, religious and economic) so my bullshit sensors were out the whole time during the class. Amazingly, they came back clean.”

From Fred Lindsay; “When I first heard about Skip’s two day class in log house building I was skeptical as hell. I thought to myself, “Who is this guy trying to kid ?” However, when I read the Application he sent to me I saw that he gives a “double-your-money-back-guarantee.” All I have to do is build my own log house, and then, if I am unhappy with what I learned in the class, Skip will give me back twice the amount of the tuition that I paid. I have never heard of a guarantee like that before, so I took the class. In the first hour of the class, I lost all of my suspicions regarding Skip. I found myself thinking, “I would trust this man with my life.” In my opinion, Skip Ellsworth is the most honest man I have ever met. From him, I learned things that have profoundly changed my life. He showed me a way to escape from the trap I was in. My first house is now almost completed, and I have already had many offers from people who want to buy it. I will make (as profit) over three times my yearly income at Boeing – and it took me less than a year to build this house. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that I am really on to something here. I am well on my way to becoming a free man – thanks to Skip Ellsworth. I owe this man more than I can ever repay.”

From Suzy Cotts; “Because I am a recent (and grateful) graduate of your class, and because I know that you are interested in antiques, I want to share the following anecdote with you. Recently, as I was shopping for antiques at the Antique Gallery in Snohomish, I saw a small, ornately engraved poem that someone had framed perhaps 100 years ago. It was hanging on the wall of the Gallery, and when I read the poem it reminded me of you so much that I could not help but feel that it was written especially for you. Therefore, I want to share this poem with you now. It reads as follows; “Four things a man must do / if he is to keep his record true / to think without confusion, clearly / to love his fellow man, sincerely / to act from honest motives, purely / to trust in God and heaven, securely.” I would have purchased this poem for you, Skip, but I had just spent all of my money for two sets of block and tackles, a peavey, and a snatch-block. As you can see by this, I am currently in the process of collecting the tools for building my own log house. I plan on building this summer, and I’m going to do it with no help from anyone. Thanks to the knowledge I obtained from you in your two day seminar, I have every confidence that I will succeed with this log house building project. I will send you a picture of the house when it is finished. Better yet, I’ll invite you to the “housewarming party” – and you will be the guest of honor. You are quite a guy, Skip. I will be forever grateful to you.”

From Ann Schwarz; “It is now more than a week since I took your log house class. I realize that I have much to thank you for. I came away from the weekend feeling empowered. At “nearly-39-and-single” I had only a flickering hope that maybe I would have my own home someday. Now I feel that it is not only possible, but almost a SURE THING. And, best of all I can do it by myself. What a rush ! The realization of that is wonderful. I appreciate your willingness to share this knowledge and feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to learn it from you. Thanks also for your hospitality. I don’t get off the island much, but I will send you a list of some of the log houses that are on the island for a possible photo tour. Thanks again.”

From Deborah Ball; “Thanks for an excellent workshop on log house building. Your knowledge of the subject is equaled only by your ability to communicate the necessary information to those of us who wish to learn. Also appreciated was your obvious distaste for the ponderous intervention of government into our daily lives.”

From Joanne Adams; “I’m sitting here in my bed tonight unable to sleep… What a life-giving weekend I’ve had. What a hope-giving weekend I’ve had. Now I can build a log home… “It’s true,” I wanted to shout. It isn’t a fantasy. It’s not hopeless, and I can be free. Thank you, Skip. Thank you for this past weekend and for giving me the courage to find my own freedom.”

From Peter and Daren Henley; “We are warm in our log home now… Speed was of the utmost importance since I worked full time for the forest service this summer. Keep us on the list for the next photo taking trip in the bus. I’d be proud to have you visit us here, and see our beautiful home.”

From Jim Mueller; “Here I sit next to the fire in the stove burning in the log house I just completed. I can’t thank you enough for the valuable information I received in the weekend course. I’ve given many recommendations and high regards regarding you and your course, and I will continue to do so. Well, thanks once again, and stop in when on the other side of the mountains. We never really had a house-warning party per se, as it has been continuing since the first log was set in place”

From Don Gray; “Thank you for the attention you gave Chris. He will never forget the experience, and he will never forget you. You have had a very positive influence on him. Just this evening he was telling me how I just had to “think something through” in order to get the job done. I know that came from you. Thanks again for everything.”

From Rob Roberts; “Thanks to what we learned from your two day class we just moved into our new log home. It is totally beautiful. It’s like we have died and gone to heaven Our home was built for a total cost of $12,000 (including electricity, plumbing, and second-hand appliances). We will be in your debt forever.”

From a secret admirer; “Dear Skip, Although it would be inappropriate at this time for me to identify myself, please accept this small token as my thanks for an enlightening and informative weekend. I found the instruction interesting and thorough. I also found the charm in your personality distracting. As they say in the sisterhood, “You’re a pretty cool guy for a white dude.”

From Candy Corbet; “An extremely worthwhile class. Skip’s knowledge about this subject was amazing. He taught us everything we need to know to build a log house, and to build it right. All the techniques were very clear and made complete sense. The class was interesting, and so was the instructor.”

From Kelly Fahey; “Thanks for everything. I really learned a lot from your course, not only about how to build a log home, but about life in general. As a 21 year old I am still trying to figure out what direction to go with my life. I just hope that I can be as satisfied with my life as you are with helping people reach their dreams and goals. I will remember your course for the rest of my life.”

From Tom Carrol; “I wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed your class. I consider this last weekend to be a high point in my life, and a turning point.”

From Sharon White; “I thoroughly enjoyed your weekend seminar on log home construction and appreciate you sharing your knowledge, skill, and background with myself and other interested people. The humor was an added benefit, so keep it in the show. See you at the next “log house” meeting at your house in August.”

From Merle Richmond: “I took your class on log home building last December, and I still marvel at how inexpensive it was and how much I learned. I have distributed information about your classes both locally and far away. You will soon be having a fellow fly in from Florida. A self-built log house is one of the few ways a person can own a home without making payments for 30+ years. I respect you for sharing your knowledge with those of us who are willing to do it ourselves. The Clark County building code inspector said that as long as I took your course then he and I would get along nicely. He said that you definitely know what you are doing. But I guess we already knew that !!!”

From Robin and Susan Buck; “Here are a few pictures and a map to our log house. My wife Susan and I took your class in August and decided to build our own log house. I hope you can stop by some time and see our place. Your class is the best Skip. It made my life-time dream come true – to own my own log home, “paid for.” For all your help, I thank you.”

From Dale Anderson; “Thanks for all the good information last week-end at the log house school. My wife Annette and I feel relieved that we attended. It certainly prevented us from making a lot of gross mistakes. Our log home is so important to us not only as a structure but it combines with a change in lifestyles so we can enjoy more of what we consider to be important to us. Again, we appreciate your giving of your time and money to help people like us.”

From Ed Delany; “A ‘thank you’ doesn’t even begin to show my appreciation for what your course has done for me. Right now I have a $900 per month mortgage that is killing me, no time to play , and no money. I am 25 years old working at Boeing. Your course has given me an opportunity for a change in my life. Words can not express my appreciation.”

From Gerald I. Haughton; “Just a quick note to thank you for your two day shot of “mental therapy.” The boost you gave my system is incredible. Your warmth, hospitality, and friendship will always be remembered. I am looking forward to building my own log house.”

From Tony Trunkowski; “Skip is one hell of a guy, and his course has changed our lives. I am 35 and have been an institutional grocery and equipment salesman for 8 years. Three weeks ago I “retired” from this good job, bought 10 acres, in NE Washington, and my wife and I are going to build a “Skip Ellsworth” style log house. During my life I have done some teaching and had the opportunity to attend a number of classes, workshops, and seminars, but my weekend at Skip’s class will go down as the most interesting and rewarding of all.”

From Gary Shade; “I attended your two day class one year ago. Thank you again for giving so much of yourself to us during those two days. I gained so much knowledge. After taking the weekend seminar, I feel I have a good grasp of the necessary concepts and techniques, and could easily build a log home for myself. I also wanted to thank you for the higher concepts that you were sharing with us about personal freedom, and the extent to which government is trying to regulate our daily lives. As I learn more about life, I am more impressed with the wisdom you shared with us that weekend. Lastly, I would like to thank you for passing on the kind of useful log house knowledge that I too can pass on to my children and friends. This kind of heritage is needed in our country, and seldom found.”

From Rick Furnell; “I am one of your students. I attended your class a year ago. I have five acres where I am building. I can’t thank you enough, Skip.”

From Ensign F.R. Welsh (U.S.S. Kitty Hawk); “It has been over a month since I took your class but I am still thinking about it. Not so much the technical data of the class, but rather the way you presented it. The fact that the details were an integral part of your outlook on living… and the ability you had to nurture the interest we had along those lines. It is not often I can sit inside a house for most of a beautiful day attending a class and not get bored, stir crazy, or have evolve inside of me any of the usual classroom symptoms. My hat is off to you.”

From Mike Paul; “No words alone can describe the knowledge and motivation I have received in these 22 hours of instruction. I previously knew absolutely nothing about building log homes, or any other aspect of construction. However, after two days with Skip I know that I can construct my own log home. Thanks to Skip Ellsworth for the challenge to me.”

From Rich Engebrecht; “I signed up for Skip’s class just for the fun of it. I thought I might learn a new skill that could help me down the line. What I got was an extremely thorough, thought provoking class that has changed my thinking regarding the purchase of homes and the difficulties associated with doing so. Concepts such as mortgages, loans, and the design and construction of a home are no longer intimidating to me, and in some cases they no longer relate to the process of me obtaining a home of my own. I have learned that log homes are not only far less expensive, but also easier to build, sturdier, and more practical than any other option. This class has given hope and inspiration to a young American male who previously believed the dream of truly owning my own home had disappeared because of the current economic climate in this country. Skip was not using a cliché when he said that his class is more about “freedom” than about log homes.”

From Jim Birchard Home Services (a licensed, bonded, and insured contractor in Kirkland, WA.); “Having attended a two day seminar on log house building, taught by Skip Ellsworth, I have nothing but praise for Skip’s knowledge, construction ability, and teaching ability. Log homes built via Skip’s method are inexpensive, not at all difficult to erect, and stronger than any other structure I know of.”

From Al E. Dillard; “I found your class to be two of the most valuable days of my life. After what you have taught me I feel that it is very feasible for me to build a respectable log home and best of all, do it without going into debt. I can hardly wait until I can move into a home that is completely paid for. Thanks for all the building information as well as your humor and especially your views on what is happening in America these days. Sincerely,”

From Heidi Hruza; “Growing up in a rural area, I have been exposed to log homes. I have previously considered possible building one, but I didn’t really have the knowledge. So the log home “kit” was my next plan (an expensive alternative). Shortly after getting married, my husband told me of this class he had heard about, which teaches you everything you need to know to build your own log home. This course was offered by Skip Ellsworth. After taking Skip’s class, we now know how to build our own log “properly” and efficiently. We’ve also learned four commonly used building techniques and also how “kit” homes are often manufactured. The doubts we once had about building a log home are no longer doubts – but definite plans.”

From Lance Hruza; “I grew up in the north woods of Idaho. I never really gave much thought about living in a log house over any other type of house until I moved to the city. I then decided, since my wife and I obtained 80 acres of land in Idaho, that I could live in nothing less than a log home. I looked at several kit log homes and didn’t think it was a bad way to go except for the cost. Then I heard about Skip’s course and signed up. I had my eyes and mind completely opened and filled with more than I could ever have imagined obtaining. I learned simple and cost effective methods as well as structurally the soundest means of constructing a log home. I was informed on the ways of the kit log builder and the deceiving ways some of them have. I can sincerely say that my wife and I can now go out on our own land and construct the home of our dreams to live in – thanks to Skip’s class and his caring for the victims. Us. Thanks Skip.”

From Mark Rosen; “If you have any doubts about log houses, or your own ability to learn how to build them there is a solution to the problem. Skip’s two day seminar will definitely do the job for you. After taking his class, I know that I can build a log house of my own that will be as good as any in the world. Skip has also given me a way to get out of debt and not be enslaved to making payments to a bank. I highly recommend his class to anyone.”

From Nancy E. Stefanoy; “I spent two years in College and two years in a vocational technical school, but I feel that I have learned more in these past two days (that will benefit me for the rest of my life) than I learned in four years of so-called “higher education.” I had previously decided to purchase a double-wide mobile home, but now that I have taken Skip’s class I have, of course, changed my mind. I grew up on a log house, and I have always wanted to live in another. For a while I had a log house in Southern Oregon, but in the split-up he got it – so now it’s my turn. When I heard about Skip’s class, I knew that it was for me. Now that I have taken the class, I know that a log house can be affordable and I can do it myself. I thank you with all of my heart, Skip.”

From Todd Zurik; “What a great experience. I have wanted to build a log house since grade school. With all of the “kit” log homes available, I was confused as to what to do. Your course clarified the issue. A hand-made log house is by far the best way to go. Thanks again for all of your help.”

From Dick McElhenny; “I would like to thank Skip for his class in log house building. It is unbelievable how informative the class was. I have no doubt in my mind that I can build a log home of my own. This is very self-satisfying.”

From Aaron Chow; Ellsworth San is very knowledgeable in the construction of log homes. His teaching is directly on the most important principle as well as indirectly by letting student make their mistake and not feel bad. I truly believe his method is the most durable and economical log house.

From Stephan Lambert; “I took Skip’s course this weekend, and I learned how to build an exceptionally good log house – easily and inexpensively. Skip is an expert in his field. He has a great attitude about life, and he encourages others to act on their own free-wills. I will build a house out of logs, and it is Skip’s seminar that I thank for this. Thank you Skip for your empowering seminar.”

From William Dean Easter; “As a college student, tutor, and teacher I have seen many sides of teaching and curriculum. Never have I seen one teacher teach more about one subject in such a short amount of time as Mr. Skip Ellsworth. His course teaches a “total approach” to log home building. You could take this course with no knowledge at all and know how to build a log home when you are done. I will forever remember this course and what I learned, and I hope to put this knowledge to work soon.”

From P.J. Cullen; “I found Skip’s class to be absolutely the most uplifting course I’ve ever taken, not only for giving me the tips, special information, and tricks of the trade on building — but for helping me to make it through the rest of my life as a man, a father, a teacher and a mentor for my own children. It was a priceless experience. I highly recommend that anyone who is looking for the truth in building their own home (and in anything else) take this course. It will change your life and revitalize you.”

From William N. Blake Jr.; “How can anybody say anything to Skip but “Thank you, brother.” I’ve been working for five years since I’ve been out of college. My hope has been to save enough money for a home of my own – and to become self-sufficient. Needless to say, it has been impossible for me to save much money. Skip has given the American Dream back to me — and for that I am eternally grateful. May God bless him and his efforts.”

From Colleen Barrett; “I wish I would have known about you 10 years ago. I lost sight of a dream because I did not have the knowledge you imparted this weekend. You have made everything so clear. I realize how simple it is – how important to network with people of the mind. I won’t let go of my dream again, thanks to you. About freedom – I can only “gush” in my heart to think I have found people of lime mind in this pursuit. Thank you very much for all your good energy and knowledge – and for sharing both with us.”

From Robert Smith; “The log home building seminar was a no-nonsense approach to building a very solid, efficient, practical home. The seminar is the best investment I have ever made in my life. It is unfortunate that there are not more programs available in the building industry that have the down-to-earth, common sense approach that Skip Ellsworth offers in his program.”

From Patrick Owens; “I’d like to thank you for one of the most entertaining classes I’ve ever had. I’m a teacher myself. I teach English on contract overseas. What is important in your classes is that you not only teach the subject matter superbly, but you also give people confidence. Looking back on the beautiful log house I just finished building on Whidby Island, I can’t believe I did it. Building this log house has given me enough self confidence to take me well into my fifties.”

From Erich Schweiger; “Thought you might be interested in this material. There is mention of my log house in the next-to-last paragraph in the “Northwest Bakers” article. Still working on the house – almost ready for the chinking and then of course the big party. Hope to see you at a meeting in the near future. If not, then I will send you an invitation to the housewarming party. Enclosed are four photographs of my house. Wow !!! Your friend,”

From Terry Bonus: “I took your weekend course with my wife, Shannon. The power of that weekend is still with us as we close in on our dream of building our own log home. Since the class we have moved back east and bought a beautiful 5 acre parcel that borders a mill pond, has an old logging road through it, and black bear and moose in the area. We paid 12 K for the property and the sellers agreed to carry a five year contract. The property is in Enfield New Hampshire and is a 20 minute drive from Dartmouth College and all the amenities that go with an Ivy League school. I roughed in a driveway and cleared the building/septic sites last summer. I’m talking with loggers now and expect to start building this summer. All this from a guy who never previously owned as much as a screw driver ! You certainly have been an inspiration. I will send you a picture of the house when it is finished. Thank you, my friend.”

From Stanley M Searcy; “I just completed a two day log home construction course from Skip Ellsworth. I took down more than 30 pages of notes that I know will help me construct a beautiful log home. Skip brings to his class not only a wealth of knowledge about log homes, but he also brings humor, traditional values regarding freedom, and the wisdom of a sensei. Originally, I took this course out of curiosity. However, I am now seriously considering building log houses for a living. I highly recommend this course to any individual who is not only interested in log homes, but economic freedom as well.”

From David Kellogg; “I have just completed Skip’s two day class. This class has been invaluable to me as I plan to build my first log home very soon. It has assisted me in understanding the construction methods and made me aware of the specific language. The most important part of this class, however, was to clear up numerous misconceptions I had regarding log home construction methods and the acquisition of materials. It was one of the most informative classes I have ever attended, either academically or professionally.”

From Thomas E. Mills; “I am a “manufacturing engineer” and have been involved in a variety of construction for the past 40 years. I have just completed Skip’s two day course and was pleasantly surprised to learn a great many NEW labor saving methods (not included in the construction books), and ways to build a log house without any major equipment. With this course inexperienced people can build a good quality, earthquake resistant house, avoiding the major errors that can occur. I enjoyed the course and I heartily recommend it.”

From Stephen Sax; “I found Skip’s course to be one of the most valuable courses I have ever taken, The information was presented in a clear concise manner. From this course I will be able to build my own log house. I highly recommend this course to anyone who is interested in building with logs.

From Matheu Birnie; “This is an outstanding course. The material is presented clearly and in a manner that encourages each person to interact with the material mentally for themselves. In other words, a student is not a passive recipient, but an active learner. This gives the student a much better grasp on the principles of log house construction.”

From David R. Verbois; “If you are interested in knowledge of “how to” then do not miss this two day experience. You will most definitely leave Skip’s seminar with the know-how and confidence to build your own log home – with no help from anyone.”

From Rick Milasich; “I attended your class on the 11th and 12th of January. While my occupation is remodeling, my earlier occupation was as a teacher (Theater and English). While I enjoyed my 14 years as a teacher, I found myself to be constantly at odds with the administrative bull-shit. The point is, because of my background, I feel qualified to commend you on your two day presentation. DI was especially impressed with your patience in handling the questions that came at you from every direction. While the world in general might label you as an eccentric (a point of pride for you I suspect) you have a marked civility that sets your students at ease, and a genuine interest in giving your students this valuable information that can change their lives in such a positive way. For this, I thank you. You will see me at the meetings, and I have already urged several friends to attend the class. Perhaps we will have an opportunity to share more later, but even if not, please accept my appreciation of your knowledge and skills. Thank you for the class.”

From Joe Purtzer (C/O Rocket Pizza, Seattle); “I spoke to you on Sunday concerning enrolling Bill and Chuck in your next course. I’ll make sure they get there on Saturday morning. We’re building a 30’ square log home on Hartstene Island, in Mason County – and we are using everything we learned at your seminar. Enclosed is a photo. We should finish the walls this week, and I’ll send some more recent photos when they are available. Everything is going great, with very few problems. We’re having a great time as well. Bill and Chuck have been helping me on the house, and they are really good guys and hard workers. I think it will help if they get the “big picture” by taking your seminar. Thanks for enrolling them, and I hope we will see you soon.”

From Shiela Donnelly; “I am a carpentry student at Seattle Central Community College. Two of my fellow students took Skip’s log house course. When they returned after the weekend they spoke about logs as if they had experienced something like a catharsis. I remember feeling goose pimples on my arms as they spoke about “logs” and this man, “Skip Ellsworth.” I was so turned on by what they told me that I decided to cancel work for the weekend and take Skip’s course. As I write, I feel that I am one of the luckiest women in the world to have had the privilege of attending this course. Not only have I learned techniques and skills necessary to build a log home, I have enjoyed Skip’s entertaining way of transmitting knowledge. It has been a refreshing experience for me as an Irish woman to listen, learn, and feel the political awareness of this man. He has motivated me beyond my wildest dreams. I will build my own log house, and live in it happily. Not only will I build my own, but I will build for others also. I will also tell everyone I know to take this course.”

From Lynn Austin; “The class content was exceptionally well-presented. The material turned building a home into a fun, skilled, and inspirational adventure. The essential economic, political, and trade information was cleverly and poignantly introduced with impact, credibility, and humor. Skip was wonderfully humorous, direct, and eccentric. He is an excellent teacher. I highly recommend this course.”

From Ruth Hambaugh; “Skip is obviously very knowledgeable on the subject of log houses. I couldn’t have found a better source of information. On top of that he’s just an incredibly interesting individual. The entertainment alone was worth the price of admission.”

From Mike Berger; “Just a note to let you know how much I appreciate your class. Not only do you have the making of log structures down so well that instead of just a skill it is an art form, but you are an excellent teacher besides. My only regret is that I didn’t take you course years ago. I would highly recommend your class to anyone who is considering building with logs. Thank you very much.”

From Susan Nielsen; “I am most grateful to Skip Ellsworth for making available to me his knowledge of how to build a log house. The information was delivered in an easily understandable manner. He covered all of the points necessary to achieve my goal, and I’m completely satisfied as far as meeting all expectations I had for taking his course. I must add, as well, that skip’s personality and wonderful sense of humor allowed me to feel comfortable in a class about something about which I previously know nothing. He also gave me a lot of encouragement and a sense that I knew everything I need to know in order to succeed at building my own log house. I now know that I can actually do this – and I will. I am delighted to have met Skip and I am honored to have been a member of his class. Thank you very much.”

From Sherry Johnson and Dale A. Johnson; “This class (and Skip Ellsworth) was so informational. I loved every minute of it. I came away believing that I could build a log house myself. Three days ago I would have bet money that I would never even consider such a large undertaking. The instruction for each step was clear and concise. I would highly recommend this class to anyone. I can’t imagine anyone that wouldn’t be interested in the idea of being financially free from a thirty year mortgage.”

From Dean A Johnson; “Skip is extremely gifted in his presentation of information and logic. I find it a pleasant challenge to take in the shear volume of methods and logic regarding log homes in only 22 hours of instruction. He deals very well and PATIENTLY with requests to repeat, and or explain information that he has already clearly stated and fully explained. It is hard to believe that someone has a sincere interest in a “common person’s” basic needs, and is interested in helping his fellow man. However, it is obvious that Skip is such a person. His help in “overcoming” as well as in building a residence is inspirational.”

From Don Stephens; “Skip’s style of instruction is direct, simple, and conducive to creating an awareness of what “common sense” is really all about. Someday, when the time is right, I will definitely get some log houses built – and that is good. However, I feel that this course should be subtitled “If you students will just start thinking for yourselves, your lives would probably be much more successful.” In a world that picks away at our personal armor, I feel that Skip is a fine armorer (teacher) who is working hard to patch, polish, and strengthen the armor of his students.” Thanks again for the dose of self-confidence.”

From Pascal Hayes; “It would have been worth my seminar fee just so spend the two days with Mr. Ellsworth. I feel that tips on log houses was just icing on the cake. I recommend this seminar to anyone interested in log constriction or for that matter anyone interested in an unbiased opinion on human rights and freedom. I definitely hope to stay in touch with Skip.

From Garfield and Sandy Staats; “Here it is almost 2 months since my wife and I took your outstanding class. We were impressed by your methods and ability to communicate and teach even a dumb ass like myself (8th grade education). At first I didn’t want to attend, but my wife talked me into it. I thought that I could build a log house just by looking at a few pictures. How wring I was. If we hadn’t have taken your class I would have screwed up every log, and probably would have built an unsafe house that would only last 50 years or so. Maybe a later class of yours would have seen it on one of your picture taking trips as one of the ways NOT to build a log house. We purchased our land a couple of months before taking your class. We see now that at least we did buy the right piece of property, with more than enough logs and other things that we learned from your school. Later this fall we will begin cutting and getting the logs ready for proper seasoning. Next spring we will start on the house. You are welcome to come out and visit us anytime. I always have a good supply of beer, and Sandy is a good cook. We would love to have you. Once again Skip, even thought it will be next spring before I use what you taught us about building a log house I really thank your for the knowledge you have passed on to us. Keep up the good work. Like good friends, logs are forever.”

From Lynda Griffith; “This log home building course was well planned, well executed and highly informative. I thought that I would learn how much I “couldn’t” do – and instead Skip taught me how much I “can” do. I CAN build my own log house, without a doubt. Now I know how to be smart about it. Thank you.”

From Bobbi Wallior; “This course was a very realistic view of what I can expect when I fulfill one of my dreams – to build a log home of my own. Not a poorly constructed one – but one that I can be proud of and know that research and know-how has gone into every aspect of it. I recommend this course and M thankful that I took the time to investigate it. Thank you Skip… Mr. Ellsworth, Sir.”

From Micky (Marilyn) Nordgren; “I came to this course knowing virtually nothing about building. Skip presented his information and shared his expertise and knowledge in a clear and easy to comprehend manner. His use of video and on-site examples helped me to understand immediately. I appreciate and respect his passion for this craft as well as his honesty regarding what is out there regarding log home “kits.” I wouldn’t have missed this. I feel I now have information and knowledge that will enable me to make good choices about materials, styles, methods, and techniques. Thank you, Skip.”

From Yama Filipowicz; “This class was one of the best investments of my life. The voluminous amounts of information that I acquired in this two day class might surpass what an average student learns in a two year vocational college. I’m ready to leave my current job and dedicate the next stage of my life to building log houses. To say that participating in this class in Skip’s museum-like log home was an unparalleled experience just doesn’t do it justice. Words fail me.”

From Ward Weiss D.C.; “My name is Ward Weiss. I am a chiropractor in the State of Washington. I have just concluded taking a log home building seminar hosted and instructed by Mr. Skip Ellsworth. This was an unbelievable weekend. It not only changed my view on log house building — but also my outlook on America, this world, and this life I’m living. Mr. Ellsworth is an extremely patient teacher. His ability to make what seems “impossible” into simple, clear steps is one of his greatest strengths. I have enjoyed the class and highly recommend it to anyone. I now realize that my wife and I can build our own log home. Thank you, Skip !!!”

From John H. Carswell III; “It amazes me that in the past 100 years we have put a man on the moon, and we cook our food by speeding up molecules, but we’ve lost the technology of building a house that is simple, economical but most of all that lasts. Skip’s course makes building a log home so simple that it is incomprehensible to me that most people spend ten times as much money for 1/10th the house – such as the modern day frame dwellings that most of us unaware folks live in. It would be a shame for anyone to not have the chance to meet Mr. Ellsworth and learn from him that the finer things in life are still simple.”

From Lori Nichols; “I took the log home building course offered by DeWelle (Skip) Ellsworth after it was recommended by my husband and his two brothers. I now understand their enthusiasm and, more importantly, understand the principals of log home building. I am confident that I have the information I need to successfully complete a beautiful and inexpensive log home.”

From Belinda M. Hovde; This course has been very informative and fun. I enjoyed Skip’s sense of humor and his logical approach to construction techniques. I really like the way he thoroughly explained everything at a beginner’s level and kept our interest peaked with humor when we were presented with a lot of information in a two day period. This course addresses all of the problems that “Joe Average” would encounter on his trip through the construction process. Skip has given me all of the information that I could not compile by myself in the libraries. This course has been about information but also about encouragement to do anything we wish to do for ourselves. I WILL build a log home – and maybe more than one before I die. I appreciate the words of advise and encouragement during the course. This aspect meant a log to me since I already know that I wanted to build a log house, but I just didn’t know where to start. Skip has shown me the starting line and given me a road-map so I can’t get lost along the way. Thank you so much.”

From Michael Klein; “Great course ! I am glad I found out about this class before I started the actual construction of my own log home. It is amazing how much I learned in just two days. It is inconceivable that anybody else could come up with such a practical, simple, logical, sane, economical and ethical method of building. I can’t wait to get started.”

From Susan Bissell; “First of all, if you can read this, congratulations ! Second, I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to you for an extremely informative, cordial, and humorous weekend. I never thought log house construction could be so simple, straight forward, and fun. You have given me in these past two days the knowledge, the enthusiasm and the assurance in myself to someday make my dream come true – to live in the Aderondacks as a woods-woman. You have also reaffirmed my faith in the ability of human beings to work together and help each other. In your class, I witnessed the coming together of individuals from diverse backgrounds helping each other make future dreams come true. Thanks for your support and energy. Your class brings a lot of hope into this world. Someday you’ll be receiving some photos of my log house to add to your collection. Thanks again for the push to move forward towards my own freedom.”

From Sam Rickland; “This weekend school was the best learning experience I’ve ever had. Skip’s ability to teach for retention and still make it stimulating and interesting was phenomenal. The excitement with which I leave here will certainly last for years to come. I hope I can pass my log home, or maybe several of them, on to my kids.

From Michael J. (Micki) Paul, Jr.; “This was the most interesting, energetic, exiting class I have ever been through. I am a 17 year old high school graduate that has an attention span of a four year old. Not only was this class able to keep my attention, it also was taught in a way that was easy to understand, but filled my brain to the maximum each day. I loved this class and suggest that it be taught all over the world – so everyone can see the ease and affordability of log homes.”

From Bob Jacobs; “I have just taken Mr. Ellsworth’s log building class. I had no prior knowledge of working with wood. My expertise is in metal-working. Mr. Ellsworth really opened my eyes on log buildings. He showed me the “do’s and don’ts” of log houses. I found this so educational that I feel prepared to easily build my own log home. I recommend Mr. Ellsworth for what he teaches and for his unique way of expressing our American way of life.”

From Bob McElhinny; “Skip Ellsworth’s class is what I would consider to be a landmark in my life. He teaches about life and the true meaning of being an America. I recommend this course even if you don’t plan on building a log structure.”

From Chris Weiss; I entered Skip’s class thinking that as a woman I would #1) be unable to understand the “language” of building a log house, and #2) be physically unable to build one myself. However, I now leave this class with the “know-how” that is necessary to get the job done. I have no “gender excuse” to not do it. Because of this class, I am on the road to my own freedom.”

From Don Dunagan; “The last two days that I have spent in Skip’s class have been very rewarding. Skip is a very honest and out-going person who tells it like it is. His knowledge of log home building is very impressive. I am leaving his class with the knowledge and confidence that I need to build a log house of my own. Skip is an OK guy.”

From Bill Curry. “I took Skip’s class and found it very informative and a lot of fun. I feel now that I am fully prepared to “think through” the process of building my own log home. I feel that I can face any problem that lies before me.”

From Sam Gordon; “Skip’s class was very helpful in showing me that I can build a log house myself, using only basic hand-tools. No cranes or heavy equipment are necessary. I learned a log of very practical stuff.”

From Adam Daub; “I took Skip’s two day class in March. Prior to this, I had no knowledge of designing or building log homes of any kind. I now feel that I can build a log home of my dreams that will withstand the test of time and weather. I highly recommend and will recommend this course to anyone who is the slightest bit interested in log homes. I appreciate the opportunity to be involved and will most definitely use the skill I learned.”

From Michael Ries; “I took Skip’s class to see if it was really possible to complete a log home as a principle residence for myself in an inexpensive and efficient manner. I have been involved with conventional building methods for 28 years, but never dealt with log homes or their construction other than as an outsider looking into kit” homes. Little did I realize that it was so simple. Skip made his class interesting as well as extremely informative. He was ready, willing and about to answer any questions that the class had, and he explained until it was clear to everyone. The class consisted of as diversified a background of people as it is possible t assemble. I am sure that all of these people left his class with the knowledge necessary to build their own log homes. I highly recommend his course to anyone who is interested in efficient, affordable housing in this era of skyrocketing housing and lumber costs.”

From R. Bishop; “Just a quick note to thank you for the two most informative days of my life. Your two day seminar is amazing. You make learning a joy. I am now extremely gung-ho to build my own log house – which has been one of my desires for many, many years. Again, thanks Skip. It has been a great pleasure.”

From Robert Wecker; “In taking Skip’s class, you learn what being a fee America used to be like – and should still be like. He re-opens the door to self sufficiency in home building. I am positive that anyone with an ounce of brains who takes this course could without a doubt build their own home for a fraction of what most homes go for – with no mortgage whatsoever. I highly recommend this class to anyone who wants to obtain what should be rightfully theirs in this life.”

From Joy Dunagan; This is to say Skip’s two day class gave me the wisdom, the knowledge, and the will to build something I have wanted all of my life. I will build my log hoe with now fear of not doing it right, and no fear that I can ‘t do it because I am a girl. I can and I will do it. I am not a big person. In fact, some people think I am small, but I do know that nothing can stop me NOW. Thank you Skip with all my love.”

From Jay Smith; “I have spent the last two days with Skip Ellsworth and in that period of time I learned more about getting more out of life than I learned in the four years I spent at the University of Washington. I have learned not only how to build a log house, but why it is important to build one. I am looking at life in a different way after taking this course.”

From Art and Shirley Amot; “We took this class because we were thinking about buying a “kit” log home. After taking this class I know that we WON’T buy a kit – we will build our own. If we build our own then it will cost much less and it will be built correctly. I have no doubt that the information learned in this class will enable us to do the job ourselves, and our home will be both beautiful and sound.

From James Prichard; “During the Skip Ellsworth Seminar I received enough instruction to enable me to build my own log home. More importantly, what appeared to be a daunting project, now fully seems to be only a challenging, practical opportunity. Many thanks, Skip.”

From Stephen Mc Crary; “Thank you for the draw-knife and the carpenter’s knife. I will never forget how you encouraged me to learn this course and took your own time to help me understand. I know that I will always be successful at log house building. You gave me this opportunity for a good “trade,” and I will forever be in your debt. Thank you.”

From Jerry Percy; “The most interesting and informative two days I have ever spent. I would not have missed it. I learned that I can build my own log home without heavy equipment or technical knowledge. I am very appreciative of this opportunity. Thanks.”

From Bud Anderson; “Skip’s class was nothing like I was expecting. It was a lesson in integrity, common sense, and responsibility as a human being. Oh yes… and I can even build a log house now. Thanks you, Skip.”

From Bill Hagadern; “Skip Ellsworth’s week-end course on log home building was full of information, insight, and technique. It makes building a log house not only practical but achievable. It also makes it possible for me to give my kids something I’ve always wanted – a real home. Thank you Mr. Ellsworth.”

From Jaqueline Wiseman; “Ever since I was a small girl, I’ve wanted to build a log house “by” myself and “for” myself. A month ago I didn’t see how it could be financially or physically possible. However, now that I have taken Skip’s class, my dream is about to become a reality. I have one acre, and thanks to Skip I am going to start building my log house this year.”

From Maggie Stern; “To have the knowledge and skills it takes to realize your dreams is a huge step towards freedom and independence. I’ve always wanted to own my own log home – and I also wanted to take the responsibility (and pride) of doing it myself, and seeing it happen the way I want. This class makes realties out of dreams. Not only is Skip motivating, but he takes the myth and mystery out of log house building. He removes the imaginary fear. After taking Skip’s class, I KNOW that I can build a log house. Also, I also know that I WILL. Thank you, Skip.”

From Michelle Mays and Terrance D. Mays; “My husband and I attended Skip’s class on log house building. We both found the course to be informative and insightful, containing many tips and trade secrets we would otherwise never have been able to discover. In addition, we were pleased that the instructor had a relaxes demeanor and a sense of humor that made the weekend enjoyable and entertaining. We look forward to our association and friendship with Mr. Ellsworth in the future.”

From John Tuttle; “Any time a leader in a field offers to share his knowledge completely you’s have to be crazy not to take advantage of such an opportunity. I just finished taking Skip’s two day course and it was incredibly informative and entertaining. Skip is willing to answer any and all questions pertaining to log building or any other subject. I recommend the class to anyone interested in self reliance.”

From Glorea Peach; “My daughter and I took Skip’s course and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I found all of the information very explicit and feel that most of it would be very difficult to learn elsewhere. We are looking forward to building our own log home very soon.”

From Mike Becker; “I thank you for sharing not only your log house building knowledge, but also a part of your life. You turned a very good course into an outstanding one. I recommend the class to anyone who wants to achieve their dreams, whatever they might be. The solutions you teach for solving log house construction problems are straight forward and logical – and they can be extended to more than just building a log home.

From Connie Boltz; “My goal is financial independence through self-sufficiency. To build your own beautiful and sturdy log house with ease and for the lowest possible cost is a giant step in that direction. So, with this course, I am well on my way toward achieving my goal. I am EXTREMELY appreciative, Skip.”

From Rick Richardson; “Building a log house is about “freedom.” Freedom from needing to go to graduate school to make more money – and freedom to build something with my own hands. I have lived most of my life in a house going through various remodels, ultimately ending in divorce and unfinished. Building a log home of my own, with no mortgage, will give me much more control over my own life.”

From Rodney R. Lazz; “I just completed a two day log house building class with Skip Ellsworth. I learned everything I needed to know about log house building in this class. The flow of information was incredible. I found Skip’s views on life and the world most enjoyable. Skip has greatly enriched my life and I’m proud to call him my friend.”

From Brandon Wald; “Regarding Skip’s class I highly recommend it. It is an informative class that enables people to build homes they can truly call their own. Not only is the class bout building homes, it is about “life” and “freedom.” Every prospective home-owner should take this class before they buy a normal “frame” house, or a pre-built “kit” log house. Most likely their decision will be influenced by this class.”

From Carole Barnes; “Thanks for making it possible for me to attend this log home seminar. I am really excited about going out and building my own home. Your home is wonderful. How kind of you to open your home to total strangers. You are truly a generous man – with your life, your time, your love of humanity, and your knowledge. Your kindness and your caring shine through your martial-arts abilities, and your many guns. I thoroughly enjoyed these past two days.”

From Helen C. Hall; “I’m a five foot tall, forty-three year old woman who is not especially physically fit. But after taking Skip ‘s course, I have the confidence to tackle the major project of building my own log home. The techniques Skip has taught us don’t require tremendous physical strength.”

From Brad Stewart; “Anybody who is concerned about their constitutional rights, and their freedom as a human being should take Skip’s course. Learning how to build a log house is just icing on this cake. Also, it is surprising how easy it is to build a log house, using Skip’s techniques.”

From Mike Brieske; “This was a unique learning experience involving common sense, simplicity, and truth. These factors were integrated into a perfect harmonic balance. The thing I kept noticing during the class is that unclouded thinking is something that is natural in everybody – they only need to relax and get rid of the nay-sayers that try to hold you down. Skip knows how to teach that.”

From Gordon L. Kollenborn; “I’m glad that I took advantage of the opportunity to come to your class. I’m an accountant without any construction knowledge. The logic with which you presented the information makes the once formidable task of building a log house simple and fun. I am looking forward to coming to some of your parties. Thanks, Skip.”

From Ian Austin; “I am a professional athlete, part time college student, and bicycle mechanic who has spent the last few years just having fun. I am planning on going to law school, despite my severe and long-standing hatred of imperialism, government regulations, the status quo, hegemony, velveeta, and la-z-boy recliners. Why ? Because I can think of nothing else that I can possibly stand to do that will allow me to make money. Repulsive ? Yes. Necessary ? Maybe not. They say that events and people come into your life for a reason. Quite possibly Skip and the log house building methods he teaches may save my ass from going to law school. I’ve done a lot of things and been a lot of places – so, why not try building log houses for a living ? I’ve got nothing to lose. Let’s do it !!!”

From Steve Stafford; “Skip’s log home course really cleared the air on all aspects of log home building. Before attending the course I thought I had a good idea about how to build a log house. However, Skip opened my eyes to the number of costly mistakes I would have made. Thanks to Skip I am now heading in the right direction for success. Thank you, Skip, for being honest, accurate, and patient with your students.”

From Jim Foust; “Thanks for the most informative two days of my life. I’m leaving here with enough confidence to take on the challenge of building my own log home. Fortunately for me I came to your class before I purchased land in once certain county. Once again, thank you for opening my eyes and I’m really looking forward to putting the knowledge you gave me to use. Thank you.”

From Bryan Foust; “My brother and I took Skip Ellsworth’s seminar. Skip is very knowledgeable, and an excellent teacher. He is very patient with his students. He really has a way to open your eyes and enable yourself to learn. We are looking forward to building our first log house.”

From Daniel M. Behr (Emigrant, Montana); “I just took a two day course offered by Skip Ellsworth. It took this course because it was strongly recommended by a friend who took it several months ago. I am satisfied that with the knowledge I have acquire through this class I can build my own log home even with the limited capital at my disposal. I am a carpenter by trade, but have never understood or like the “complexities” that are engineered into modern construction. Skip teaches a very basic and practical (yet extremely durable) form of construction that I appreciate as the way all construction should be done. Skip himself exemplifies what he teaches, and that, to me, is the mark of a true teacher – one who has BECOME what he teaches. I strongly recommend Skip’s course to anyone seeking practical, affordable, and healthy housing.”

From Dave Hiney; “The most important thing Skip will remind you of (if you have forgotten) is that you can do anything you want to do, if you only “think” about it. Some people came to this class because they thought they could make a lot of money building log houses. Other people came to save a log of money. The class can do either of these things for you. I you are thinking of building a log home, you probably think you already have an idea of what’s going on. I work in the engineering field now. And have worked in construction in the past. I have helped friends work on kit log homes, and thought I had a good idea what to expect. In this two day class I quickly learned that I previously know NOTHING. The tricks we learned to getting the job done come from the accumulated lifetimes of experience. I look forward to building my first home and sharing this experience with my friends. I look forward to experiencing the dream we all share.”

From Kurt Boswell; “This class taught by Skip Ellsworth was the best class I have ever taken. I now know what it takes to build a great, long lasting log home. Skip’s method of teaching makes you learn with great speed and understanding. I recommend this course to anyone who is even thinking of building a log home.”

From Deb Klibanoff; “Being able to live in one’s own home without a landlord is one of the primary goals of most individuals and families. Skip’s course not only provided me with the know-how but also gave me the tricks of the trade to build the sturdiest house possible at a very affordable price. Now I know that I can afford to build and live in my own log home. It was a great course, and I highly recommend it.”

From Mark Rogers; “I would like to thank you for the knowledge you have given me. To have received so much information in only two days is unbelievable. You have given me my key to build my own home, and more importantly the key to my own future. I believe you are the greatest educator in America. Thank you very much.”

From Jeff London; “Skip’s course was very educational on several levels – especially from the standpoint of gaining a larger measure of freedom. The log home part of the education, although fascinating, is mostly symbolic in nature. Skip taught me that the price of freedom is individual responsibility. He illustrated how, through ignorance, we the American people have surrendered our God given freedoms as set forth in the Constitution of the U.S. I now realize why the log house has always symbolized freedom – from the time of Colonial New England to the present day. The log home is the link between “man” and man’s deepest yearning – freedom.”

From Duane H. Sandin; “Having just completed Skip’s two day course, I am very impressed and satisfied and feel that I have learned in two days what would have taken me several lifetimes to learn by trial and error. The class was a very enjoyable experience that I would recommend to anyone who may be thinking about building a log house and getting free.”

From Herb Adkinson; “Now that I have attended Skip’s class, I know how a good log house should be constructed, and I realize that freedom is just around the corner. I’m thankful there are people like Skip in this world. Freedom is what it’s all about. Thanks, Skip.”

From Violet Scott; “I have been involved as a teacher and as a student in management and professional development for over 15 years. Never have I received so much valuable information imparted in such an easy flowing manner as I have in Skip’s course. It was fabulous. I have often said that I am so dense when it comes to this “left brain” stuff that I still need my manual to start my curling iron. I can no longer say that. In Skip’s class I could understand all of the information easily. Skip is a genius at imparting confidence in his presentation of learning. Just great !!!”

From Dan Meredith; “At this time, I am perhaps one hour away from completing Mr. Ellsworth’s informative and practical log home building course. I have been in the building trades for fifteen years – and I entered in to the course assuming that I already knew some of the rudimentary methods and principles of constructing log buildings. I was, however, quite wrong in my assumption. Mr. Ellsworth, in two days of instruction answered all of the questions about log house building that had been churning in my mind for years. His instruction was concise, and lucid. At all times Mr. Ellsworth would kindly and tactfully simplify the questions and problems that had arisen. I can say that I have never gleaned as much useful construction information in so short a period of time – and I can also say that I have met few human beings who are as dynamic and virtuous as Skip Ellsworth.”

From Henry Buldhoffer; “Skip Ellsworth’s two day class is a must. It teaches you how to build a strong, attractive and affordable house. Log houses are simple to build with Skip’s techniques. A person really can’t afford NOT to take this class.”

From Jim Burgess; “I came to this course believing that I would only get an “introduction” to log house building. However, after two days of Skip’s non bull-shit methods of teaching and building, I am surprised to find that I am actually able to build my own log home. Thank you, Skip.”

From Shiela Fields; “Self-directed thought and self directed actions are rarely admired or emulated. However, there are exceptions. Through the Shekinah principle of energy exchange with a dynamic teacher, both freedom and spontaneity can be taught with the most extraordinary result – in this case, a LOG HOME. Mr. Skip Ellsworth’s approach to life and home building combine in a rich composite of technique, practicality, thoroughness, humor, and thought provoking paranoia. Anyone would benefit from Skip’s down-to-earth guide to financial freedom and domestic security through log homes.”

From Carol A Stewart; “My husband and I just took Skip’s class on log house building. My son took Skip’s class a month ago. I can see that we can realize freedom by using Skip’s ideas. I would recommend this class to anyone seeding freedom.”

From Stephen Kid; “Skip’s class was great. Very informative starting from ground zero. It’s more than a class about log home building – it’s about a way of life.”

From Rick Knight; “After spending many years researching information about building log houses, I believe that as a result of Skip’s two day class it is time to stop the research and proceed with building my house. Al my questions were answered COMPLETELY by Skip, and I can now build a log house merely from my memory of this class.”

From Susahn London; “Skip’s class is a delight – spiritually, socially, and structurally. His intense belief in his simple, straightforward construction methods makes anyone believe in his own common-sense ability to build a safe, beautiful and economical home. As a recently divorced women trying to survive from one paycheck to the next, I suddenly felt the exhilaration of being able to provide for myself a greater financial security than any employer had ever created for me. I realized that my financial destiny is really in my own hands. I also realized that my life-long dream of living in the country in a beautiful log home can become a reality.”

From Becky Adkinson; “My heart and mind are very full this evening with thoughts and feelings of freedom. I know now that my family can and will build the best and most sound home available in the world today – and others can and should do the same. We, as a people, can’t afford not to.”

From Jerry Novak; “I have seen the light ! I believed I would never be able to afford my own home. Skip’s class on log house building has taught me I can not only afford my own home, it has given me the know-how to build it for a fraction of the price of a normal frame house. I feel that I can now take any project and by “thinking it through” I can accomplish anything. Thanks for the valuable information.”

From Don Novak; “This course is an absolute must if you are thinking about buying or constructing any type of house but especially if you are interested in log houses. Skip’s course is outstanding. Even if you have no building experience, Skip’s class gives you the knowledge and confidence to plan and build a log house of your own. He makes you aware of many practical ways to overcome obstacles. He willingly, even enthusiastically answers all questions and gives you the benefit of his many years of experience. Many more people would be building there own house if they were aware of how easy it is.”

From Jennifer Renfroe; “I took Skip Ellsworth’s weekend class. I found it to be just what I needed in order to plan and execute the bed and breakfast inn I will be building. He took us step by step through the construction process, and answered every question that was asked. He even anticipated most of the questions – and therefore, we reaped questions from the minds of not only our own group, but also all the groups of men and women who passed through these classes before us. Skip was humorous and exciting to listen to. He provides details and describes problem areas to look for and how to prevent then and/or deal with them. Skip’s class is all the information a person needs to get on their feet and make a move. You get motivation and support as well as respect as a mutual member of the Association. I recommend this class to everyone who is serious about wanting a home of their own. I know that I will soon be a successful log house builder. How could I not be ?”

From Carol Hendrickson; “I signed up for Skip’s class on a whim. I have never had any fantasies about log houses — but I was looking to buy my first home, didn’t have much money, and was checking every possibility for getting myself a house. God, I’m glad I followed my whim. I feel like I’ve stumbled onto a gold mine. The quality of the instruction went way beyond just learning how to put up a log house. Skip deals with a broader, more important principle – that of personal freedom and how to get it. By knowing how to properly build a log house I can now get shelter I can afford — and I can even earn an independent living from building and selling log houses to others. An entire new world is opening up for me. Thank you, Skip.”

From Domenic and Charlene Huttenlocker; “We took Skip’s class on log house building in the hope that it would help us to determine how much of the actual construction of our dream house we could do by ourselves. After two days of “sensory overload” we are convinced that we would have “zero IQ” if we didn’t do it all.”

From Paul Hearns; “Attending Skip’s class is one of the best things I’ve ever done. I have learned enough to build a dream that I’ve had for 25 years. Thanks to Skip He’s one of a kind. Great !!!”

From Jean Lix; “Skip’s class is well -organized, informative, and perfect for the novice log home builder. He teaches the skills needed to embark on the experience of building your own log home – from start to finish. His personal support and encouragement are a joy to behold. The class is totally worth the time and effort. I’m glad I didn’t miss it. Thanks.”

From John M. Daniels; “I was planning to buy a “kit” house from Montana, but I have changed my mind because of your two day class. I now have the knowledge necessary to build my own log house – and do it correctly.

From Polly Baroque; “I found Skip to be very straight forward and to the point. Very honest with clear and simple instructions. Very thorough, including excellent examples of each step. I can easily build a log house of my own.”

From David Jordan; “I have just completed a two day seminar on building log homes with Skip. This was something I had wanted to do for some time. I am very pleased with the seminar and would personally recommend it to anyone who has the inclination to be free and live in a home they built by themselves. This has been a turning point in my life.”

From Karla Kress; “After the class I felt very excited about log houses and I realized that I can actually build one of my very own – with no help from anyone. Also, it is now obvious to me that I can use log houses to free myself, to whatever degree, from the machine that has become our society.”

From Don Turner; “I took Skip’s course on building your own log home and I was amazed to learn that such a simple, basic, durable and aesthetic method is so cheap and easy to do. I hope to build my own log house using the technique developed by skip – which combines the best of an old style, with some added modern improvements, using a relatively small number of hand tools.”

From Toshiaki Machida; “Please excuse the English I try to use. I enjoyed these two day. Skip knowledge and life style attract me. “Freedom” is wonderful in any language. My job is banker. I have to work hard to live in the hard competition. I spended 12 to 15 hour in my office all days. But… My dream is to built log home with my family. After this college, the dream come nearby. It become reality ! I never forget Skip forever. I’m sure you are best log builder. If you’ll come to Japan please call me. If I get new address in Japan I mail new address. I and my family is willing to take care of you as much as possible in Japan. You are my friend. Thank you.”

From Cathy Caughlan; “We had a lot of pre-conceived notions of how log homes should be. After the class, we realized how much garbage we had been previously led to believe. Skip showed us how straight forward and easy it is to build a log house. We now have the confidence in our abilities to produce our own home. Skip shoots straight at the facts. Also, he exposes the fallacies of kit homes. He saves us a lot of headaches, not to mention money.”

From Lee Plaster; “I took Skip’s course and I am now seriously thinking about changing my occupation and becoming a full-time log house builder. This was life changing stuff, man. His course teaches you to be confident in yourself. I’m twenty-three years old and I am generally very confident about my abilities, but I am now confident that I will build my own log house, if not many more. I could not have built a log house successfully without taking this course. Everything you need to know about log houses is in this course.”

From C.R. Gotefuhr, Jr. D.C.; “At the end of the second day of your class, I stood outside your beautiful log home and asked myself the question, “Am I going to build a log house of my own ?” The answer is… “I have no choice.” Whether I want to or not, I must pursue this avenue with as much focus and diligence as I can muster. I want to be free — and log homes can obviously, simply, and easily get me there – fast. And who knows, it looks like I will probably enjoy myself in the process.”

From Mason Hall; “I just completed Skip’s two day course in log house building. I’d be willing to bet my next paycheck that he knows more about building log homes than anyone else in the world. I am absolutely confident that within the next year I will build my own log home and own it outright. Thanks, Skip.”

From Penny Brandt; “All of my life I have been full of fear and doubt that I could ever have a home. Skip has now cleared my mind and given me hope and confidence that I can do this on my own.”

From Eric R. Joy Sr.; “I just finished Skip’s course and feel this is a viable solution to starting your own empire. I am enthusiastic and feel confident I can build my own house without any problems. The techniques used are fail-safe for anyone with any IQ at all. Thanks, Skip.”

From Janet Christopher; “Hello. I just completed Skip Ellsworth’s class on log house building. I am thankful for his devotion to the industry and especially to the philosophy behind his class – which is “freedom.” Since I currently pay $1,300. per month for my mortgage, I am anxious to begin working on building my own log house. Skip is a wonderfully entertaining teacher – and very thorough, clear, and easy to follow. I appreciate this new view on life that Skip has shared with us.”

From Beth Anne France; “Building my own log house was always a dream that I thought would never come true, mostly because I didn’t feel confident enough to get started. I don’t have any construction experience, and I didn’t trust my skills to build a log house. After taking Skip’s class, I realize that building my own home is entirely possible. This is something I can do !!! I know that some day I will build a log house in my home state of Alaska.”

From Jiom Schurtz; “The weekend I just spent with Skip Ellsworth was informing, enlightening and inspirational. He showed us how to construct our own log homes using simple techniques and inexpensive equipment and materials. The approach he took involved us having to expand our minds and use new outlooks in problem solving. He then helped us apply the same principles to log home building. The course was direct and I know that I can now start construction of my own log home.”

From Thelma Robinson; “I write this in response to taking Skip Ellsworth’s two day class on building a log home. I’ve never built anything before, and felt that I never could. However, in two days I learned that it is possible for me to achieve the independence, freedom, and sovereignty I want by building my own home. I’m amazed that I have learned so much in such a short period of time, and I can’t wait to start work on my own log home. Skip is an outstanding teacher who makes it simple enough that anyone can do it – especially us females who’ve been programmed to think we can’t. Right on, Skip.”

From John Brault; “Skip Ellsworth’s log home construction class is a rare treat. It is a very good class. Skip not only teaches you how to build the home, he teaches you that it is all there for you. He re-enforces that all you have to really do is think for yourself. He gives you the basics, and then teaches you to figure it out from there. If you don’t know what to do when your done, believe me it is your own fault. Take the class, be patient, and learn. There is more going on in Skip’s class than at first meets the eye.”

From Dave Russell; “Skip’s class is an eye-opening experience, to say the least. Though I am currently finishing an undergraduate degree and have accordingly learned from many fine educators, Skip has taught me something I didn’t know could be taught; how to make a difficult task easy. His knowledge of log house construction is enormous, but his lessons can be applied in virtually every situation. Having completed this class, I am confident of my desire and ability to successfully construct my dream home.”

From Ron A. Patteson; “I found after taking Skip’s class that the building of log homes is more common sense than anything. He also has filled my head with the knowledge and the know-how. Skip is very understanding and also very caring about what his students think and say. I would like to say “thank you” to Skip for all that he has done for me and all the other students that he has helped.”

From Shannon Bragg; “Hi. My name is Shannon Bragg and I recently took Skip Ellsworth’s log home building class. I’ve always been very interested in log homes but never thought that I, myself, could do it. After having taken Skip’s class, I feel very capable of being able to build my own log home. I never knew I could learn about log homes in two days. But with Skip’s class you really learn how to do it, and you know your have all the information you need to go out and do it for yourself.”

From Rebecca R. Wagner; “I have learned enough about the butt-method of log house building to feel confidant that I can do it. I am going to follow Skip’s advice and build enough log homes to set me financially free. I am so glad I came. I have a vision now. The learning process was fun, together with Skip’s joy-of-discovering-for-yourself method of teaching and his interesting stories. Thank you, Skip”

From Dan Stryker; “Skip is a very good teacher. He goes through everything over and over until we all understood the processes that he was explaining, no matter if it was a big problem or not.”

From Rosalie Gammelgaard; “I heard about Skip’s class for some time before I left a message asking for an Application I was more interested after reading about his class in more detail, but I still found it hard to believe that he could teach me (with no experience of skills) to do this. Because of my skepticism, I put off attending the class for a couple of years. I finally attended only because I discovered that he was having a class on a week-end when I had no real excuse not to attend. Now, at the end of the second day, I am convinced that this process is as simple, inexpensive and fast as Skip describes it. Every question was answered thoroughly and patiently. I am confident and VERY excited about what this means regarding how I can live my life. I can’t believe that I wasted so much time simply because I didn’t know that this was for real.”

From Judith E Earle; “I have always wanted to build my own log home, but I am a woman so I thought it would be impossible. During this two day seminar I realized that it is possible. I not only have hope, but I have a real working knowledge of how to build a log house, and I plan on doing just that. I will be building my log home in Montana, and I will succeed only because of this two day seminar.”

From Bill Earle; “My wife and I have planned for years to build a log home. We checked out books from the library and read every piece of information we could get our hands on. We had a lot of unanswered questions. While attending Skip’s class all of our questions were answered. We both now have the confidence that we can and will build our own log home. The best part is, we will not have a mortgage.”

From Steve T. Leighton; I have taken Mr. Ellsworth’s log home class twice. Once in 1979 and now at the present time. I can sincerely say, that the knowledge you will obtain is the finest you will find anywhere from a man I would say is one of the world’s foremost authorities in his chosen field. If you are thinking of building a log home, then this is knowledge you can not do without.”

From Virginia Roberts; Having just completed this class I would like to say how much I enjoyed this time and how appreciative I am of your willingness to share your passion with others. Fate, and myself, brought me here – and with your help, I’m on my way. Thanks.”

From Kelly Loney; “This was certainly the most practical seminar I’ve ever attended. The information is applicable to us immediately. How we know we can actually live in our own log home. I know we can do it. I especially liked the encouragement of improvising. Just do it. Whatever words. Once we learned the ground rules, and the basics, it was obvious that we could thing for ourselves and succeed in building our log house. Thank you, Skip.”

From Jim Fernando; “I never thought that there could be a course in log house construction that could be learned in two days. I’ve learned so much in this course that I am encouraged to build my own log house as soon as possible. I thank Mr. Ellsworth for giving us the knowledge and making us realize the freedom that we can gain by using the knowledge. All the time and money that I’ve spent was well worth it — more than a thousand times.”

From Barb and Jim Dzuira; “This class clarified many misconceptions. We were amazed to find that log house building is so logical and practical. It has turned our dream into a realistic possibility. We also learned a lot of valuable life lessons about freedom, etc. You certainly opened up a whole new world. Thanks Skip. We’ve REALLY enjoyed the class.”

From Teri Collins; “I have just completed Skip Ellsworth’s log house class. It was much more than what I expected. The course has stirred a dream that has been brewing for many years. The information given this week-end is worth its weight in gold. He has given me and my partner the ability to see our freedom from the thirty year (seeming like forever) mortgage. This will enable us to live our life to the fullest. I suggest that you should do whatever it takes to check out this class.”

From Andre Von Poppin; “The weekend we just spent with Mr. Ellsworth proved to be a powerful educational experience on many levels. How rewarding it was for me as a woman to have some insight and understanding in areas that few women ever learn about. I am deeply appreciative of having the opportunity to take Mr. Ellsworth’s class.”

From Kyoko Yoshimura Botefuhr; “I was concerned that I might not understand as Japanese is my first language. However, the visual presentation, the hands on demonstrations and Skip’s well paced explanations and diagrams made me feel that I could successfully build a log home myself.”

From Carl Botefuhr; “A man’s home is his castle, especially when he has the feeling of accomplishment that comes with having built it himself — and the knowledge that his log castle will not only stand the test of time but as an investment it was an economic success. Skip’s methods and philosophy could help eliminate the problems of homelessness for people of the world.”

From David English; “Before I took your course I had no interest in building a log house. My fianace brought me here. I did not think that my building a home for myself was even a remote possibility. Well, to my surprise, the mystique is gone and I now realize that it is not only possible, it is probable. It is so simple I’m embarrassed that I did not consider it prior to this time. Yes, Skip, you’ve set the spark that lit the flame of freedom in my heart.”

From R. W. Burgrave; “The class was very easy for everyone to understand. Skip goes into each step in detail but not with such technical verbiage that it leaves people with dumb looks on their faces. On the other hand, he teaches you the language of the trade, so you can talk to others in the log building community. Skip shows you just how easy it is to not only build your own log house — but own it free and clear.”

From Amanda Lewis; “When I came to this class I had no idea what to expect. WOW !!! These two days have really keyed me in on what this whole thing’s about. Skip is relaying a way for us to escape our own prisons. Through building our own log houses we can be on the road to self reliance. Being self-sufficient is my ultimate goal in life, and I’ve just come several steps closer. Hey, thanks skip !!!”

From Emily Kelton; “Skip Ellsworth’s class in log house construction has helped me to realize that my dream is attainable. In order to own my own home I don’t have to be mortgaged up to my eyeballs for the rest of my life. And I can contribute to helping the environment by living in a way that has less impact than traditional housing with out giving up a beautiful home. This will be my first step towards self-sufficiency from a government that is rapidly approaching fascism.”

From Michael S. Mortensen; “The wealth of information shared in Skip’s two day course was incredible. Everything was so clear, understandable, and most of all, useful. The scales of ignorance and misconception have been removed from my eyes. I know that I can now complete my own log home. I recommend the course to anyone even remotely considering a log home.”

From Stan Hoyecki; “Quite simply, as an extension of my own soul, I have found a way to “freedom” through Skip’s two day class. Because of my own economic anchors, I was temporarily slowed down – but nothing can stop the momentum now. We too will also be there…”

From Lori and Mark Mechler; “Your class was great. We came here knowing little about log home building (well… we thought we knew a lot !) but we are leaving with more knowledge than we thought we could ever gain on this subject. You covered all aspects completely, and your style of teaching is so easy to relate to – for us “eccentric” types. Thanks also for your remarks about “freedom” and your political insights. Knowing that other intelligent people have the same views gives us hope.”

From Robert M. Weber; “This class was my first exposure to log houses. My wife and I were interested in an affordable alternative to conventional housing. During Skip’s two day class we were actually taught how to build our own log house. I am excited about the potential for this type of construction. I am a licensed general building and general engineering contractor in the State of California. It is obvious to me that Skip has provided me with an opportunity to escape from the 30 year mortgage (or noose).”

From John Shull; “The benefit of Skip’s two day log course is too difficult to pin down in one little paragraph. First and foremost is the knowledge disseminated regarding building and owning your own home free and clear – and at a very low cost. Second – Skip is a superb teacher. His ability to give information in a usable way is to be commended. I highly recommend this course to anyone interested in taking responsibility for their own lives.”

From Paul Ledeboth; “I very much enjoyed Skip’s log house class. I didn’t realize how basic and simple it was to put together a log house. Skip made it very self explanatory. I thank you for the opportunity to have taken your class and I would recommend it to anyone.”

From Pat O’Connor; “Your class was great. I learned a whole lot more than just how to build a log house, and I recommend your class to anyone who wants to own there own log home. Thanks a lot, Skip.”

From Dean Brook; “I have been in construction most of my life. Your class and method of creating reasonable housing for people has been a major revelation to me. Your philosophy of construction, government, and life are exemplary. Your approach is what once enabled America to become a great country – free from excessive government regulations. Hopefully, we can re-instill these values in many, many more people.”

From Kyra Tyler; “I was amazed at the sheer simplicity of building a log home. The basics Skip taught were purely common sense. I never dreamed I could walk away from a two day seminar and have the confidence to build a log house with just me and a partner.”

From John Nalisnik; “I thoroughly enjoyed Skip’s seminar. I’ve learned more in two days than in the lifetime I have spent reading how-to books. Skip’s anecdotes border on the sublime, and his observations of our (unfriendly) political situation are both accurate and disturbing. I leave Skip’s house enlightened, and as Skip would say, “hip.”

From George Williams; “Skip Ellsworth is the best instructor I have met. He has a very relaxing way of teaching. He makes it easy to grasp each step that you advance to. He has patience, sincerity, and honesty. When he is done with the course you feel you have control of the project. And again, I’ll say he’s a person you’re proud to know and work with.”

From Elsa Rosina; “I learned more in Skip’s two day class than I learned in any school. I left feeling well informed and very excited about the prospect of building my own log home.”

From Marni Hay; “I would never have believed someone if they had told me that I would someday be building my very own log home. Let alone that it would be so simple. Skip is a pleasure to learn from and a “trip” to listen to.”

From Sandra Stall; “I just spent two intense days sequestered in a magnificent log home under the tutelage of Mr. Ellsworth learning the details of log home building. The content of the course was detailed and comprehensive, the process exciting and inspiring. Every one of us are leaving with the knowledge, and confidence, that we can build our own log home. Quite a mind-expansion in two days. Thanks, Skip”

From Dave Wagner; “I know that with the information received from Skip’s two day class in log house building I now have all of the knowledge I need to build my own log home. It was a great experience that will allow me to be free from the burden of a 30 year mortgage. Thanks, Skip.”

From Rick and Myra Moore; “My wife and I, wanting to build a log house, decided to take Skip Ellsworth’s two day course. The humor and knowledge, surrounded by Skip’s warm log house hospitality, made this course very unique, down to earth, and easy to understand. At the end of the second day, my wife and I are both very confident in our abilities, and anxious to get started on our log home. Thanks, Skip.”

From Fred and Sherrie Dewey; “We wanted to thank you for the wonderful learning experience we had during your two day, 24 hour log house building course. At first, we were a bit skeptical that we could walk away after only two days and be ready to start our own log house – but now we feel more than equipped to “just do it.” Your unique teaching style, coupled with your sense of humor, made it very easy to understand the building principles which had previously been a mystery. Thank you so much for you time, and for sharing your expertise in log houses.”

From Doc Cuellar; “I appreciated this course, not only because it taught me to build a log home, but also because it put a perspective on how financial freedom can be achieved and how a better quality of life is possible.”

From Phil Moss; “Attending your seminar gave our spirits a sense of freedom and offered renewed hope for us. There was something emotionally, psychologically, and even spiritually freeing for us in attending the seminar. We will definitely build a log home in our native state of Colorado. Thank you for the inspiration.”

From Jeanne Cendenon; “It looks like the people in the enclosed article could surely use a hand. This would be a good group project. We remember our class in the 1970’s with you and always recognize a “Skip Ellsworth” style log house. There are many of them in our area. Bless you for what you do, and may all your dreams come true in the coming year.”

From Jackie Cuellar; “I was really impressed with Skip’s two day course on building log homes. I have absolutely no experience in building or using tools. However, I now realize that I can build a log house. This course has really taken the mystery out of construction. It has been very enjoyable and it was very nice meeting Skip Ellsworth. My husband and I found him to be very interesting and innovative.”

From Paul J. Hill; “I began this class thinking “what an incredible amount of work this is going to be to build an entire log house.” NOT SO. Yes, there are a lot of steps you must go through, but few of them are really hard work. In fact, most of the procedures are actually fun when you get going on them. All you have to do is follow the steps and principles laid out and the next thing you know, you’re moving in. There is really not a lot you can mess up. Just take your time and stick to the few basic rules and you are on your way to a completely new way of living and being free from debt. Skip is “right on” in the way he shows you. You can’t go wrong.”

From Bob Birchett (nightclub owner); “All my life I have dreamed of having a log house of my own. On this, my second day of Skip’s class, I KNOW I will have one completed and be living in it by this time next year (winter is too close at this time to start work on it till next spring). With no experience using tools, and with no building experience, I still have complete confidence in the simple methods I have learned. In other words, they have been idiot-proofed.”

From Kirk Mathews; “In the last two days I have attended Skip Ellsworth’s log house building class. I am very impressed with the transfer of knowledge that Skip can achieve in just two days of instruction. You not only learn the correct building methods, but also the philosophy behind many of the techniques. What I mean to say is you learn how to approach any problem or task and solve it. Recently I finished the architecture program at the U. of W. However, I received more information in two days from Skip than I got in two years at the University. I highly recommend this class to anyone who is interested in log construction.”

From Paul Karber; “I have just completed Skip Ellsworth’s log house building seminar. I found the course to be informative and entertaining. Although I have no experience in construction, I was able to comprehend all aspects of log house construction. Skip’s teaching style brought out the best in his students. His patience and receptivity to questions allowed a novice like myself to learn along side professional builders. I now feel confident enough in my knowledge to build my own log home. I would recommend this seminar to anyone interested in building a home.”

From Steve Matson; “Skip’s class on log building provides enough clear information to allow a person with no previous experience to build a home. The log homes we were taught to build are much better in quality than a framed house, and will last for many generations. The entire concept is exciting to me because a log home can be built by almost anyone at a reasonable cost — which provides a great business opportunity.”

From Becki Maxon; “Incredible the ignorance that can be addressed in two days. Thank you for educating us not only in log construction but also in other way that were equally as valuable. I was on the verge of “overloading” because of the amount of information we covered, but the knowledge was communicated very effectively through a mixture of viewing actual buildings with construction details, scale models, videos, and I think best of all was the informal question and answer times, making sure it was all understood by everyone before we went on to the next step. “Stupid” questions were tolerated and answered with grace under pressure. Any number of things would have made the class worth the price. The information will certainly save us untold thousands of dollars. Thank you.”

From Bob Ferguson; “I recently became a high school teacher and when I graduated from U.C. I realized they did a good job of teaching me “subject matters,” but they did a very poor job of teaching me how to teach. I learned more about teaching when I attended your two day class than I learned in six years at U.C. Your teaching style, your methods of keeping the interest of the class, the way you mix hard information with interesting stories, your patience in handling stupid questions, your sense of humor, your timing, was all very impressive. You kept my interest for two whole days, and you taught me everything I need to know for building a beautiful, strong, and long lasting log home. Thank you, my friend.”

From Harvey Conrad; “I have just completed a two day course in building a log home that was conducted by Mr. Skip Ellsworth at his residence in Monroe, WA. It was an intensive course consisting of videos and actual presentations involving every aspect of building a log home. I now feel very confident in my abilities.”

From Todd Harris; “Skip Ellsworth’s class definitely has provided me with the knowledge I need to build my own log home. Skip also proved his points about costs and effectiveness of his methods. I am looking forward to putting this information to work for me and my family. Thanks, Skip.”

From John Mien; “My two day experience in Skip’s log house building seminar was exceptional. We covered lots of material that will be useful, and it was enlightening at the tame time. The class has made it possible for me to build a log house of my own – which is something I’ve always wanted to do. The two days spent in this class were valuable to me also in a philosophical and attitudinal way as well.”

From Bard Carey; “I have just taken Skip’s log home building course. The information given, and the way it was given, will allow me to build my own log home — effectively and inexpensively. The course lasted two days and I feel it was complete in every detail. My wife will be taking the next course. Thanks, Skip.”

From Mrs. Terry Arnold; “Skip Ellsworth’s two-day log home building seminar has given my husband and me inestimable amounts of practical information, equipping us with all the knowledge necessary to build our own log home from start to finish. We have been inspired and motivated to not only build our own home, but to work harder to achieve financial freedom.”

From Terry Lee Arnold; “I just attended Skip Ellsworth’s two day log home building seminar. I found him to be extremely knowledgeable and his course very valuable. With this information, I truly believe that I have what I need to start and finish a log home successfully. I would definitely recommend this for my friends to go through.”

From Glenn Maxon; “As advertised, Skip Ellsworth’s two day log house building course will bring an aspiring log house builder (with no construction experience) up to a high level of familiarity with log house construction techniques. I now have the confidence to go out and build a log home on property we own in the San Juan Islands in Washington State. I sincerely appreciate Skip’s willingness to continue teaching this class. An important side-benefit of this class is just getting to know Skip Ellsworth.”

From Sean Pattison; “I recently took Skip’s log home building course and was amazed at how easy it actually is to build a long-lasting home at about 90% less than a conventional home. I thought I had a general idea how to build a log home until I took the course from Skip. In the first half hour of the class I found out how much I didn’t know. In the class I learned all the tricks of the trade. I am now well on my way to being a log home builder/owner. Before I took this course I thought it would be a neat idea to build a log home, but now I am even more eager than ever to start building one. Take the class, then you are pretty much set. After your first one, you can sell it, quit your job, build more, sell those, and be financially secure for the rest of your life.

From Dan Zarlengo; “Thank you so much for teaching the log home course. I wanted to learn two things – how to build a log home – and how to make a business out of building log homes for others. Both of these things were explained so easily and clearly that I am fully confident that I can achieve this.”

From Mary Nobuko Shmetz; “I learned from Skip Ellsworth a lot more than just log house building. I learned a philosophy of simplicity and beauty that clearly shows in his approach to log house building. He explained how the aesthetics resides in the inherent beauty and simplicity of the physics that underlies the entire process that he learned from his father – a family tradition that has passed through five generations. I think Skip Ellsworth has a lot of wisdom to share with everyone.”

From Ralph Coslet; “Skip’s instruction removed my confusion, questions, and skepticism regarding log homes. As a “university educated engineer,” I have often pondered the pros and cons of the various construction techniques. I knew of many situations where log construction was criticized. I heard may rumors, but I knew there must be some viable techniques. This is an area where experience (preferable someone else’s) is the only source of accurate knowledge. Too many books conflict with each other. Too many “experts” lack experiences. Skip shared decades (and generations) of legitimate experience in his class. I am now confident that I am properly educated in this field. Skip obviously cares that the log construction methodology remains recognized world-wide as an effective and efficient building technique. His efforts to educate are thorough and absolutely understandable regardless of a person’s background. I will recommend his class to friends in several states. I now believe in log home buildings and I now know I will use Skip’s building method both for my personal residence and my speculative real estate ventures. My doubts have been dispelled, and I, as with all of Skip’s other students, have an open offer to call him any time we have a question. We are fortunate that any man should be so willing to share such knowledge at any price, let alone the small fee he charges. His 22 hour class delivers more useable information than most college courses deliver in an entire semester. I expect that Skip and I will become like-thinking friends.”

From Jeff Archambault; “Skip Ellsworth’s class was very enlightening. I was glad to see there is still some old fashioned ingenuity left in this country. His philosophy of life in general is what everyone needs a lot of. His class provides a very practical way to build a functional log house without a lot of unnecessary expense.”

From Kim Romska; “Skip’s class clearly explains each step of log home building in a way the uninitiated can understand. Even more important that that, I am now confident that I can make money building and selling log homes and I will own my own home free and clear. Thank you, Skip, for this key to financial independence.”

From Sheri Holliday; “I came into Skip’s class with a lot of trepidation after visiting a friend who had purchased a log home “kit” three years ago. I spent 2 hours listening to my friends tell me horror stories about what they went through in constructing the building and for the continuing problems they had for the next three years. In the first hour of Skip’s class, I learned that it didn’t have to be like that at all. In Skip’s class things are explained in terms that anyone can understand. He answers your questions with tact, honesty and humor. I would greatly recommend this two day class to anyone. I am ready to begin my log home.”

From Stan R. Peters; “I enjoyed Skip Ellsworth’s class in log house building immensely. From the class, I acquired enough knowledge to give me confidence that I can really do this. I also appreciated the fact that a philosophy was presented concurrent with the instructional material, that coincides with the spirit of log house building.”

From Pamela Coslet; “My husband and I have just finished taking a two day log home class from Skip Ellsworth. His class was excellent. We learned how to build a log home the best way. We learned all the different steps of building the home. If we had not taken the class we would have probably purchased a log home “kit” from a kit builder. It is scary to think that we could have gone this route. Skip is doing a great thing educating people about the log home kit builders and the many mistakes that they often make. We have benefited greatly from meeting Skip, learning from him, and being able to associate with him. Skip has helped us tremendously.”

From Johnnie Porter; “I attended a log house seminar last February, and I not only learned how to build a superior log house, but I also learned the difference between superior and inferior log buildings. I can honestly say I learned a philosophy of life which is generally being forgotten in this country. It is a known fact that your parents are the two most influential people in your life — and just maybe you will be lucky enough in life to meet someone else, other than family, with as much significance and influence. Skip Ellsworth is such a man. I commend him for his log house building skills and his philosophical views and I hope he continues to teach and spread the word of both.”

From Joel Anderson; “I took Skip’s class and found it to be excellent. He teaches easy, simple to follow methods. I got lots of information regarding ways to save time, money, and my back. I learned everything from how to go about finding logs, to dealing with building codes. My wife and I plan on building within two years, and we found the course to be worth its weight in logs.”

From Kim Anderson; “My husband and I attended Skip’s two day course on how to build a log home. Skip’s class was very informative, and because of this we now have the knowledge to build our own log home without wasting a lot of time and money. If someone is planning on building a log home, I recommend that they take Skip’s class before starting.”

From Victoria Alexander; “I took Skip Ellsworth’s two day class in February. I feel privileged to have been able to learn from someone who has had as much experience as Skip His credentials speak for themselves. His primary interest is to give people the opportunity and know-how to achieve a measure of freedom and sovereignty – the means to get out from under a 30 year mortgage, which is one of the main ways we are kept enslaved by “the system.” Skip makes the process simple and very possible to implement – even for beginners. I highly recommend this seminar. The knowledge I obtained here will save me an untold amount of money and heartache by allowing me to build my own log home rather than buying a log house “kit” with all its accompanying problems and expenses. My sincere thanks and respect to you, Skip. What you are doing here is truly making a great contribution.”

From Joan Schmier; “I took the log house class and was pleased to learn that there is a way to achieve the American Dream of owning my own home free and clear – and at an affordable price. I am looking forward to pursuing this dream. Much thanks for this course.”

From Steven Schmier; “I just took your log home building class and enjoyed the experience tremendously. The class was action-packed and loaded with information that was simple to understand and well organized from the beginning of the building process to the end. I liked the numerous examples of different techniques and ways that were tried and proven. Your style of presentation and humor made the package complete. I recommend this class to anyone who is interested in a place to live, financial freedom, and participating in an enriching experience.”

From Rick Buchanan (fireman, Wenatchee, Wa.); “I am writing this letter to let you know how much I appreciate the honesty, integrity, and straight forward, no-nonsense approach you displayed during your presentation of log home construction. The fact that this has been handed down through generations in your family shows well in every aspect. Thank your for sharing your life and time with us.”

From Angelika Harding (South Germany); “I am very delighted to take this seminar about log house building on your wonderful Ranch and to be in your magnificent beautiful house. I learned very much this weekend about life and log house building. I can now build a log house in the traditional way and I feel prepared enough to start building a log house by myself. Thank you very much Skip for this great opportunity to meet you as a wonderful teacher of life and log house building. With love,”

From Walter J. O’Kane; “At the time I had signed up for this course, I had all but given up on my dream of someday building my own log home — and I thought that the class was probably just another log kit company’s “come-on.” I couldn’t believe that it could all of the required material could be covered in only 22 hours. Now I know I was wrong. In that 22 hours Skip covered every aspect of the construction needed to build a log home from scratch. I now know that my dream can come true. Now I believe that anyone who has ever dreamed of building a log home can do it. Skip’s course is taught in a relaxed and easy to understand manner. I know it gave me the knowledge to make my dream become a reality someday soon.”

From David A. Wilson; “I traveled 350 miles to take this class on how to build log houses. I am a third generation wood products person and find that everything Skip teaches is simple and straight forward. I plan to build log houses for a living.”

From Tim Hill; “My name is Tim Hill, and I, by chance, have taken Skip Ellsworth’s log house building class. I had not planned to take this class nor was I interested in log homes; However, I took the place of a friend who had signed up but was not able to attend. I am happy to report that I was surprised by how much I learned and I really enjoyed the experience. It was fun, interesting, weird, and most of all informative. I now look forward to planning and building a log home in the future. I would recommend this experience to anyone.”

From Carolyn Reeder; “Skip Ellsworth’s log house building class is a thorough, practical and very instructive course. He integrates visual aids, verbal instruction, videos, and actual examples of each aspect of the building process so we may clearly understand the processes. He gives practical instruction on building codes, permits, drawing plans, and the like as well. The instructional style is one that permits the students to view a varied range of building techniques. He explains each part of the building process slowly and carefully so even those of us who are unfamiliar with building are able to understand. He gives a tremendous amount of information — all the while maintaining good humor and patience with our many questions. He engenders a sense of camaraderie among the students. I feel I have gained a good knowledge of log house building , and I am now able to build a house of my own because of this class.”

From Tom Legg; “I’ve just finished Skip’s log home building course and being a builder myself, I found this training and information to me mush more than just an “overview” of log home construction. It covered every facet of this construction process – in such a way that anyone can understand it and learn it. I will be starting my own log home in the near future and feel completely ready for it – thanks to Skip and all the information he has given me. It has been much more than a great course – it’s been an experience.”

From Chris J. D’Amato; “I just wanted to drop you a note to thank you for your recent two day seminar on log home building at your wonderful home outside Duvall. You are a great teacher and you made learning very fun. I can’t wait to get going on my first log home. Your views on life, debt, government intrusion, as well as log home building itself, I found to be very eye opening and refreshing to say the least. Anyway, I appreciate your willingness to share the “secrets” of log homes. I desire to build my own home and not have to “slave” away to pay high mortgage payments to a corrupt banking system so someone else can get RICH off of me. I would like to build several homes and sell them so I can “retire” early as you shared with us about the “build one, sell it, built two more, sell them, build four more, sell them, etc.,” which is an idea that I think makes a lot of sense. Anyway, thanks again Skip for your hospitality and friendliness. It was refreshing. I hope to stay in touch with you in the future. I hope everything works out for you in Southeast Asia.” Thanks a lot and God bless you.”

From Ray Vasquez; “I’ve just completed a log house building course with Mr. Skip Ellsworth. The course reflects Skip’s life-philosophy – simple, direct, elegant. Next spring I will build a log house with full confidence.”

From Barbara J. Elza; “Skip Ellsworth is the vanguard for independence from servitude. Building and owning my own log home can become a reality now. Home ownership was a 30 year ball and chain that I thought I may never achieve or enter into. What a magnificent alternative Skip has presented me with – and I will be forever grateful.”

From Jeff Starnes; “In regard to Skip Ellsworth’s log house class, I’ve been wanting to build a log house for 15 years. I’m now 30. I thought it would be a highly complicated process, and I’ve been looking at kits, but it’s not the same as building it yourself – and besides the kits are extremely expensive. After taking Skip’s course I am sure I can build a log house that is sound and will last forever. Skip is a highly intelligent man. When it comes to log home building and the economics behind it, he has more knowledge than anyone on earth. He clearly explained every step of the process. It was well worth my time to take the class and I will definitely build a log house for my family – thanks to Skip.”

From Don Waller; “I attended a log home building workshop taught by Skip Ellsworth. Words cannot express the awesomeness of this experience. Just to be in this man’s presence and experience his energy, spirit, knowledge and wisdom is worth the price of admission. Learning to build log homes is frosting on the cake. Give this man ten thumbs up.”

From Gary Adams; “Skip has the best form of teaching I have ever seen. I hadn’t any idea of how to build a log house before I came to the seminar — and 22 hours later I find myself feeling confident to start on and finish it with a lot of pride.”

From Brian McBride; “The log home seminar offered by Skip Ellsworth has long gathered my attention in the Little Nickel, a free classified ad paper in Washington State. Recently, my wife and I were informed that our rental property had been sold, meaning that we were being forced to move. It finally became time for us to make the decision about building our own log home. Skip’s class was the answer. The class was incredibly informative and direct. We learned everything we need to know to build our own log home cheaply, quickly, and the way it should be done. I have no doubt that anyone can learn to build their own log home from Skip”

From Penny McBride; “My mind is bursting with information. I can’t wait to use my new-found knowledge. And the wonderful thing is, even I can do it. And I will.”

From Lucinda Arnold; “I would like to tell whoever is interested that I took Skip Ellsworth’s two day course in log house building, and I now feel confident that I can build my own log structure. I know that I will be able to complete my house using Skip’s techniques. His views on life and how to live it are honest, and his hope that we all break our chains to become self-sufficient are admirable.”

From Dale Varosis; “I really appreciate this class you gave. It was worth driving the 3,000 mile round trip. I learned everything I need to know, and I will put it to good use. Thanks again.”

From Gregg Dean; “Skip’s class on log home building is the best class I have ever taken. Pick any subject matter and this class beats it by 100%. Good job, Skip.”

From Correen Johnson-Dean; “Skip has a wealth of information about log homes. He shares this knowledge very willingly and he gives many helpful examples and illustrations. He also responds to all questions thoroughly and he makes sure that everyone understands each concept before going on to the next.”

From Eric Leete; “I am an artist from the Graham Washington area. Last August, I attended the log building course at the home of Mr. Skip Ellsworth. Aside from the fact that Mr. Ellsworth and his home are the most interesting experience I have had in years, I also am pleased to state that after attending this course I have every confidence that I am fully capable of building my own log home – from scratch. I fully intend to do that as soon as possible.”

From Judy L. Ware; “I have learned so much from you this weekend that I feel very confident that I can now build my own log house. Your style and humor have combined into a great teaching style. I’ve also gotten some great ideas from you on how to get through my parenting. Wishing you the best in all your adventures, and I hope to show you my log home someday.”

From James Andrews: “I am 32 years of age and have been a member of the United States Navy for 14 years. In many ways I am typical of Americans in that I do not own my own home, and I owe too much money in consumer debt. Recently I became aware that it is possible to build your own log home for less money that what an average car costs. This past weekend it has been my privilege to attend a class taught by Skip Ellsworth of Monroe, Washington. In this class, I not only learned how to build a simple and extremely durable house, but also became aware of the way of life that is often associated with log house building. With the knowledge I gained this week-end, I can now be free of debt and wage slavery. This is a totally revolutionary idea, and one which was not easy to accept. “Can this be real?” I said to myself on the morning of the first day of the class. By the end of the day, I realized that it was indeed real. In the next three years I am going to purchase land and build my own home. I will pay for materials as I build the home, and will not have a mortgage. Very few people in this country own their home free and clear, and I sill be one of those few, thanks to the dedicated efforts of Mr. Skip Ellsworth.”

From Greg Roberts; “Prior to attending Skip Ellsworth’s 22 hour course in log home building, I did not realize that I have several choices pertaining to log home building construction techniques. I now know that many kit builders are only in business to make a quick profit at the expense of good construction. Skip armed me with the information needed to make intelligent decisions in this field.”

From Jonathan Simard; “I took the seminar on log house construction that is taught by Skip Ellsworth. The course to me was about three things (minimum): The first was Economics. The second was Log Homes. The third was Skip Ellsworth. I came away knowing a lot about all three things – and all were interesting and worthwhile. Peace.”

From Noel R. Paulsen (also signed by Finn Paulsen, Noel’s brother); “I wish to acknowledge the extraordinary course in log building that is taught by Mr. DeWelle (Skip) Ellsworth. It is profoundly encouraging and enlightening to find so committed a man breathing new wind into the slack sails of the universal “American Dream” Skip gives his students a knowledge and a renewed courage in the merits of common sense. I leave this weekend class with a sincere optimism so grievously absent from the ranks of my generation.. Respectfully,”

From Debbie Chandler; “I have just completed Skip Ellsworth’s class on how to build a log home. In 22 hours Mr. Ellsworth can instill in anyone the knowledge to build their own log home and achieve freedom, both financially and personally. I feel fortunate to have been in one of the courses that he, was teaching. Thanks, Skip.

From John Sly; “I’ve heard it said that what is truly powerful is truly simple. Skip’s course is both – and it has revitalized for me a major purpose in my life. I’ve spent 25 years in the construction industry and the major value that all of this experience is that it enables me to easily recognize the truth of what Skip teaches — and how relatively easy it is to build log homes. Thanks to Skip.”

From Marcia Maloney; “It’s astounding ! I arrived on Saturday morning knowing nothing at all about building a home. It is now Sunday evening of the same weekend, and I now know how to build a terrific log home — a home that can be done without a mortgage. Skip presented all of the information in easy to understand language. I have absolutely no doubt that I can and will build my own log home. Gratefully,”

From Barry Levin; “I have completed Skip’s weekend log house course and have been highly impressed by the knowledge I have obtained. Building a log home is possible now. I learned every aspect of putting a log home together and it actually seems that it would be fun to do. Skip’s wealth of knowledge, clarity, and presentation of materials is what made the difference – profoundly ! Thank you.”.

From Seven R. Beyer; “I recently took Skip’s class in log house building. I appreciated Skip’s intelligence and integrity. Skip also has the heart of an American patriot. His genuine interest is in the betterment of his student’s lives. He knows that if the students apply what he teaches them, that they will begin to break away from the “system” that keeps them in bondage. I appreciate Skip and I am better off for knowing him.”

From Julia Brill; “Knowledge is as important as the rising of the sun. Skip delivers his “log house” knowledge with great style and skill. I enjoyed this class and found it to be a tremendously helpful. I’m the second generation of my family to attend Skip’s class. My parents have already built a beautiful log home.”

From Elaine Kearns; “I came to the class knowing absolutely nothing about log houses, let alone how to build one. These past two days I have learned everything I need to know about constructing my own log house. The course is specifically designed for people like me – who have no knowledge whatsoever about construction. Therefore, I didn’t feel intimidated. I have enjoyed my experience a great deal. Now I am all set to go build my own home.”

From Shannon Corpron; “I took Skip’s class this weekend and came away feeling that, yes – I can build a log house. I can use Skip’s simple, common-sense approach and build a butt-method house that will be beautiful, strong, and will last for generations. I feel empowered in that Skip has taken the mystery out of the process.”

From Amy Baker; “My husband was anxious that I attend Skip’s log home building course as he had attended two years previously and wanted us to build a log home together. I was less than enthusiastic to leave my son in his care and attend, but I must say after finishing the course, that my attitude has changed. Instead of this log home being my husband’s project, I am now seriously interested in being involved. Skip’s course is worth anyone’s time or money.”

From B.J. Lemke; “I just finished a course given by Skip Ellsworth on log house construction. I found the class to be not only extremely informative, but a very fun weekend. Mr. Ellsworth has a delightful sense of humor, with a sincere down-to-earth manner with which he teaches his classes. I left the class KNOWING I could build a log house — and I am anxious to get started. I would recommend the class to anyone. Thanks, Skip.”

From Effie Ligon Bruno; “I have just finished taking Skip Ellsworth’s log house building course. I came in with a limited knowledge of building and virtually no understanding of log house construction. I came away from the course confident that with the information I was given, I can easily put together a strong, safe, and beautiful log home. And I can do it simply, and at a fraction of the cost of a conventional frame constructed house. The wealth of insight, common sense, and useful information provided by Skip can set you free. I highly recommend this course.”

From Mary Harris; “My husband and I took the course in the hope of gaining knowledge in how to build a log home. We both feel that after taking this course that we can achieve that dream.”

From Linda Wicker; I took Skip Ellsworth’s log house building class. I was pleasantly surprised to learn how cheaply and easily we can build a log house. We are now equipped to deal with all aspects of either building our own log home or having it done for us. We are now able to understand good quality material and workmanship. Skip himself marches to the beat of a different drummer, and he is very likable.”

From J.C. Ender; “I have recently taken Skip Ellsworth’s course on log home construction. Skip is one of those rare people one meets who gives a minimum of ten times what would reasonably be expected to do a good job. I recommend Skip’s course for both novice and experienced log home builders as one of the best investments you can make if you want to build a log home that will last a long, long, long time.”

From Allen H. Anderson; “In this moment I have just completed Skip Ellsworth’s two day seminar on log house building. WOW !! The instruction was complete in the most minute detail, and given to us with and humor. The information is simple and EASY to understand. I am eager to build my own log house, and other log houses. I highly recommend Skip and the course. This is the end of a class, but the beginning of an exciting friendship and journey in log home building. Peace and Happiness,”

From Paul Davillon and Susan Miller; “Mr. Skip Ellsworth has done two things for me and my wife. He has provided us with the knowledge necessary to build our own log house – and he has provided us with the encouragement and support to get us started. With this new knowledge we know exactly what we can do to free ourselves from the financial burden of paying a bank to live in our home — for the next 30 years. We both feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to take this course from Skip.”

From Stanley Yoshikayei Seo; “This class is for anyone who has ever thought about building a log house. As a person with no skills or experience in carpentry I was concerned as to whether or not I could master a craft such as this in a two day course. My fears were completely laid to rest in the first 15 minutes of the class. Skip’s straight-forward style, casual manner, and easy to understand instructions made log house building a snap. After the two day class I felt I had more than enough knowledge and skill to easily complete a log house building project of any proportion. I highly recommend this class to anybody who is considering building a log house. It is a class that teaches the value of using common sense.”

From Kate Carey; “I entered Skip’s two day log house building class wondering where and how I would find all the time, money, and energy to build a log house of my own. Skip taught the class in such a way that I discovered that I already had these recourses even before I arrived. I leave this class knowing that I can begin the moment I walk out the door. I am impassioned with the process and ready to roll !”

From Don Grubb; “I had a very enjoyable and informative weekend, and obtained a wealth of information about the simplicity and beauty of log house construction. I am now confident that I can build my own log house. Also, the class put me in touch with a whole network of like-minded people who can be a resource and a good group of people to associate with and have fun with. I could go on and on. Skip Ellsworth is an excellent teacher, with a treasure trove of knowledge that he is willing to share with anyone. Thank you.”

From Tom Leitch; “I am 47 years old, have built my own regular frame house, and recently took Skip Ellsworth’s two day log home course. I took this course because I still owe a hefty mortgage on my present home – and I want to own a home free and clear. The information in Skip’s course was enough to allow me to build my house with logs and be free of any mortgage.”

From Jodie McKenna; “The log house seminar I attended under the instructional leadership of Skip Ellsworth was fulfilling in the sense of a feeling of empowerment. Skip was not only explicit in his teachings and profoundly knowledgeable, but also he was delightfully entertaining. He not only taught us step-by-step how to build a log house, but he kept us laughing the entire time. Skip’s invitation to telephone him at any time with questions tells me that he has a deep commitment to a mission. This may be only one of Skip’s passions – as he strikes me as being an intellectually heavy ‘dude’.”

From Kelly Scott; “When I enrolled in Mr. Ellsworth’s class I admit I was skeptical. After taking part in his course I was amazed. I found it to be THE most informative class I’ve ever taken. The information provided was clear and concise. I truly did learn how to build a log home. We were taught the reasons how and why a home should be properly built. Skip is a neat person who makes sure you understand everything you need to know before leaving the course. I recommend this course to anyone with an interest in log homes and good people. Thank you Skip.”

From Ron Patton; “The class exceeded my expectations, which in turn has created a greater motivation to build my own log house. The systematic, yet common sense approach regarding the methodology of log house building has given me an appreciation of these wooden structures that goes beyond the physical realm. Thank you, Skip.”

From Thomas Bakken; “I took Skip’s class on log home building. In a word… “awesome.” I will recommend this seminar to all of my friends and coworkers.

From Bruce H. Robinson; “Mr. Skip Ellsworth has provided an amazingly informative and illuminating course on how to build a log house. He has discussed many different styles and the pros and cons of the different methods. The information he presents is invaluable. I only wish more people knew about his course and were building houses according to the principles he teaches. He is very forthright and straight forward and shows the students how to “think-through” the methods of construction. Thank you so much for all your help.”

From Scott Campbell; “Skip fits very well into the teacher mold. I got more information in two days of his class than in any other class I have ever taken. Even the average person with no knowledge of construction or tools can learn how to do it in this class.”

From John Butler; “Skip Ellsworth gives an intense two day “experience” in independence based on thinking for yourself and how it applies to building log homes, political systems, and life. This class opens your mind to new ideas and gives you the self confidence to try them.”

From Gary Graber; “I recently attended the log house building course taught by Skip Ellsworth. I found the course material to be filled with practical construction techniques. I am convinced that the course material presented will enable me to construct my own log house. The secrets have been unlocked.”

From Thomas R. Erkel; “It is a pleasure for me to recommend both Skip Ellsworth and his program of log house construction. In his day seminar, he comprehensively covers every conceivable aspect of log house construction. This experience was both enjoyable and educational and it completely revised my goals for home ownership. I will now build my own home with this information that I got from Skip. Thank you for this exceptional opportunity. I recommend this class to anyone without reservation.”

From Liz Galer; “I recently attended a two day log home seminar with Skip Ellsworth. I learned more in two days than I could have read about in a lifetime. Skip is so full of knowledge that he could write his own encyclopedia. Unfortunately, my husband was unable to attend, but I fully intend to have him come to Skip’s seminar in the near future. The knowledge that Skip has to give is invaluable. I would recommend his class to anyone interested in building a log home. I can hardly wait to start building our own log home.”

From Tom Johnson; “I have just attended a two day seminar on how to build a log home. The course was well directed and very well thought out with the principles of furthering our log house education. Skip’s instructional techniques have been honed as a log time instructor at the University of Washington. Skip’s lifetime of experience in raising log buildings finds its most fulfilling statement through educating others. Skip obviously feels most fulfilled when helping other people reach their goals of affordable housing. He has my complete confidence and sincere endorsement. Best wishes.”

From Robert Cochran; “I have just attended a log house building seminar taught by Skip Ellsworth and would highly recommend it to anyone. Anyone interested in log home building would benefit from Skip’s life-long knowledge and his views on the world and life in general. My brother and I both attended and are pumped and ready to build.”

From Ralph Cochran; “I’ve just completed Skip Ellsworth’s log house construction class. I now have the information I need to start building my own log home. Skip provides everything necessary for a thinking man to complete his own home. He covers all aspects without compromise. His methods are proven and he truly cares. Skip is unconventional, revolutionary, and gifted. I’ve known Skip only two days, and I respect him deeply.”

From Lonnie and Tammra Dickie; “My husband and I just completed Skip Ellsworth’s log home building seminar. We have always dreamed of building our own log home, but we always felt that this would be way out of our reach. After taking Skip’s class, we now know that we can be successful at this – both financially and physically. Skip brings things to your attention that you never would have thought of until too late. These tips will save you a great amount of time and money. We highly recommend Skip’s class.”

From Ken and Gladys Jablonski (Loomis, CA.); “My wife and I drove over 1,000 miles on four days notice and through winter weather to be at your class. The knowledge we gained here was worth many times any cost we have expended. We walked away from this weekend class with the knowledge we need to go out and complete our own log home. Sincerely,”

From Mark Sullivan; “I, Mark Sullivan of Kent, Washington, have just completed Skip Ellsworth’s log house building course and I found it to be an extremely worthwhile experience. I was very impressed with the wealth of information I acquired through Skip. I’ve only known him for two days, but I already call him my friend. That’s what kind of a class it was.”

From Doug Baird; “I have just completed Skip Ellsworth’s log building class in Monroe, Washington. The feeling of confidence I have right now is incredible. I am absolutely positive I can build a home that will be beautiful and long lasting — and I can do it with very little money. It is hard to believe that just two days with Skip has produced this result. Skip is a rare individual that I feel can truly be trusted. Thanks Skip, I hope to know you for many years.”

From Jim Spink; “I’ve just completed your two day course in log home building. As a carpenter of 25 years I’m very impressed with the ease, thoroughness and simplicity of your instruction. It is obvious that anyone can build their own home without needing to incur a lifetime of debt and servitude. Bless you gentle brother for your skill, energy, and courage. Love, Jim Spink”

From Gerald Hill; “I thoroughly enjoyed your seminar on log home building. I learned so much in these last two days. I knew absolutely nothing before I came to this seminar. You taught this seminar so clearly that it was very easy to understand each step. I really appreciate your dedication to teaching novices. Thanks so much for your presentation. I shall recommend this seminar to my friends and relatives. Keep up the good work.”

From Mary Hill; “This is to state that I have just completed taking a two day course from Skip Ellsworth. During this course Skip has given me all the information I need to build a log home. By following his instructions, a person can feel confident in building a log home on their own. Skip has been most helpful in presenting the information in a very understandable laymen’s language.”

From Mia Roozen; “I have just completed the log house course that is taught by Skip Ellsworth. It is a two day, 22 hour “intensive.” Is it ever ! I was presented with so much information that I now feel confident to build a log house – although I did not have any previous knowledge whatsoever. Skip really cares about each and every person in his class – and he cares about their chance at socio-economic freedom. This course changes many people’s lives. I could not think of a better way to learn about building a log house. I highly recommend this class.”

From Neill Kennedy (Lake Okaraka, New Zealand); “Just a note to thank you for the opportunity to be in your course. In the two days that I spent with you I learned how to build excellent log houses, which is a knowledge that I intend to put into use in the very near future.”

From Doug Weston; “I just took Skip’s log home building class. It was great. About every half an hour during the class I picked up a pearl of “log home building wisdom” that far out-valued the cost of the class. I picked up many such pearls during the course. Thanks, Skip.”

From Rich Flynn; “Skip’s class has given me the “possibility” of financial freedom. How did he do it ? He taught me and made me “believe” that I could build my own home. I will be forever grateful to the man. Also, he taught/reminded me much about life.”

From Darlene and Robert Young; “My husband Robert and myself just completed the 2 day log home class with Skip. We thought we knew something about building log homes prior to attending the class, but we soon became aware that we didn’t know anything. Skip shared his years of experience along with secrets of the trade. All of these things have given us the confidence that we will be able to build a lovely home that we will be proud of — and that Skip will be proud of also.”

From Rob Santoni; “I just wanted to take a minute to say a sincere thank you. “THANK YOU.” After years of reading about log houses — and even helping to build a couple of log houses — I thought that I knew quite a bit about log house building. WRONG. I obviously knew very little before coming to this class. In just two days, I learned more about log building than in all my years of experience (fantasy). Not only did you cover the basic ideas and principles, but you did it in a way that anyone could gain from it – novice or expert. Your willingness to share your knowledge and experience while letting us think for ourselves was quite rewarding in itself. I would highly recommend your course to anyone at all interested in log building. Thanks again.”

From Ed Peters; “I have just completed a log home building seminar from Skip Ellsworth. For years I have dreamed of trying to find some way out of America’s financial trap — the 30 to 40 year mortgage. I wanted to avoid the financial trap of working all of my youthful years to pay for this home that will probably be worn out by the time it is paid for. In this weekend course I’ve taken from Skip, my hope is restored, because now I know how to build a mortgage free log home. I can do it ! Because of Skip’s years of experience, coupled with his ethics and teaching ability, I can build a log home, debt free, the way it should be built. I don’t just “recommend” this class – it should be required in the public schools.”

From J.R. Ecker; “I have just completed Mr. Skip Ellsworth’s weekend seminar on building a log home. I found Mr. Ellsworth’s seminar extremely informative and helpful. I feel that I can now, with confidence, build my own log home.”

From Michael J. McAllister and Janice K. McAllister;” We have just recently taken Skip Ellsworth’s seminar on log home construction. This class gave us all the confidence to build our own dream home. Skip explains everything in an informative, precise, and effective way. We both thoroughly enjoyed the class and highly recommend it to our friends.”

From Delbert and Christy Van Natta; “We attended Skip Ellsworth’s log house building seminar. We feel that we have learned enough in these two days to build our own log home. Skip’s method is based on simplicity and ease of understanding, so that a person with no prior construction knowledge will be able to build their own log home. We are very excited and ready to start on our road to a mortgage-free life. Thanks, Skip.”

From D. Reagen; “Thank you for sharing with me your invaluable knowledge and refreshing style of showing me how I can follow my goals to achieve anything I want and especially the freedom and confidence to build my own log house and ultimately start my log home construction business. Thanks, Skip.”

From Michael Walken; “The two day course you taught provided me with all I need to know to really feel good about starting my new house and my new life. ‘The money you charge is a real joke compared to what I received from you and your course. Thank you. Thank you.”

From Warren (Buzz) Hollenbeck; “This course has been not only enlightening and entertaining, but more than anything else, it provided vital comprehensive log home building information. I’ve never learned so much in so short a time.”

From Jim Frykholm; “I just completed Skip Ellsworth’s class this last weekend. This two day class taught me everything I need to know to build a log house. Skip is a great teacher and presents this information in an easy to understand way. Virtually anyone can learn how to build a log house, and I recommend this class to anyone interested in this subject.”

From Anne Alford and Scott Alford; “On February 19th and 20th my husband and I attended a log house building class that was taught by Skip Ellsworth. We are total novices at using tools but after the class we feel confident that we can build our own log home.”

From Cathy Prichard and Nick Bistrup; “We just attended Skip’s two day seminar learning how to plan and build log homes. We were impressed with how straight-forward Skip is and were pleased with the thoroughness of his class. Had we not taken his course, there are many things we would not have knnown and many mistakes we would have made. I recommend this class to anyone who is interested in low cost (high return) housing.”

From Rene Loomis; “What a great class ! Your dedication to, and knowledge of, quality log house building is not only informative, but inspirational.”

From Bill Bogen; “I attended a two day course in log home building given by Skip Ellsworth. I found it to be extremely informative and helpful. After this course, I feel competent that I can build my own log home.”

From Ms. Misheshomea; “I just wanted to drop you a note to tell you how much I enjoyed the two day seminar on log house building which I just completed. Thank your for your hospitality. I found your teaching to be very clear and very easy to understand. I would like to try to put together another seminar with all my friends attending. After learning about log homes I could never “buy” a conventional house to live in. Again, thank you and I hope to see you at the next meeting.”

From Elaine Dale and Mark Dale; “We have just completed the weekend workshop in log construction offered by Skip Ellsworth through the University of Washington. We previously had virtually no log construction experience. Skip’s knowledge of construction techniques, shortcuts, and pitfalls to avoid will undoubtedly result in our saving much time and money. He is a gifted teacher and is able to clearly present all material in a way that is easy to comprehend, making the project much less intimidating to all involved. I would highly recommend this class to anyone interested in constructing a log home, and having the personal freedom this offers. Best regards,”

From Bruce Cox; “I came to this class with the expectation of a typical “classroom” type of informational class on how to build a log home. I not only got that, but I also got a firm grip on the things you should NOT do. Skip has so much knowledge to share . His information is invaluable. It was an excellent experience. Skip also has so much to share bout life philosophies.”

From Mike Rayno; “I have always thought about building my own log house but never thought it would be realistic for me to try this. After spending just two days at Skip’s course he has given me the knowledge and confidence I need to go out and build a log home. He has given me a chance at the American Dream that would have never happened if it weren’t for Skip’s concern for other people to achieve their dream. Thanks.”

From Shannon Bajor; “My husband, Bruce, and I spent two full days at Skip Ellsworth’s log house construction seminar. The seminar was held at Skip’s house which is a monumental log house, built by Skip. Whether you know anything about construction or not doesn’t matter. Skip explains every detail and everything that could happen when building your own log house. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience.”

From Bruce and Shannon Bajor; “Bruce and I saw this bird-house and we thought it would be a unique way of thanking you once again. We attended the log house seminar on May 15 and 16. We really enjoyed it and got a lot of useful information from you. There are quite a few people from Bruce’s office wanting to take your next seminar. Take care.”

From Becky Buschman; “I have just completed Skip’s course on log house building. I found the class to be extremely informative and inspirational. Skip is a first-rate teacher as well as an entertaining story-teller. I feel indebted to him for giving me the knowledge that I need to begin the process that will set me free.”

From Mike Buschman; “It is the end of my two day course on log home construction taught by Skip Ellsworth. I came into the weekend knowing virtually nothing about logs, home construction, or the like. The experience was intense. I am physically and mentally drained. The education I received from Skip is invaluable, and I whole heartedly recommend this class to anyone, period – and especially to one who is contemplating building a log home. I leave happy, tired, excited, and satisfied. Thank you, Skip.”

From Jim Platt; “Thank you very much for your patience and understanding – and for sharing your knowledge and experience about log home building. I am a building contractor professional and have been licensed and practicing my trade for over 23 years. I was very comfortable with your explanations to laymen of the many technically demanding concerns about construction. Your knowledge of log home building is unsurpassed and your attention to detail is personally rewarding. Thank you for allowing me to share in your course. I am looking forward to building my own log home.”

From Alex Brooke; “What can I say about Skip ? He was an inspiration to each of us in the class. His teaching methods were very different and they helped us learn faster. I not only learned about log house building but also about ideas that I seldom come in contact with. He helped me learn how to survive in this world of stupid laws and regulations that are designed to not let you think for yourself. Skip’s class is one of the most eye-opening experiences that the average person will ever come in contact with. He makes you learn, and learn is what you do.”

From Bob Brooke; “I came to this class looking for some information about log home building. After two days I feel confident that I would have made all the wrong choices for all the wrong reasons. I am now ready to look at these homes in a new light. Thanks for the education.”

From Bobby Orovets (Cleveland Ohio); “I have just completed taking Skip Ellsworth’s course in log house building and wish that I had taken the course three years ago. I have never learned so much in such a short time as on this weekend. I will promote this course to everyone. Thank you.”

From Erik Sebby; “Skip’s log home building course is the most attention getting, thought provoking course I’ve taken; from initial contact with Skip, and throughout the intensive two day course. Having had virtually no log home building experience, I come away with a wealth of information, and excitement, about the time my son Carl and I will build our own log cabin.”

My name is Mary and Tammy Lynch; “My wife and I just completed Skip’s log home construction course. We found the course to be very beneficial. We found Skip’s unique eccentricity and teaching style a key to our enjoyment of the course.”

From Judy Goring; “The log house building class I took from Skip Ellsworth was truly inspiring and empowering. Expecting only to learn how to construct a log home, I was grateful to learn that the seminar also provided information about a better way of life. I gained insight into what freedom in my life means to me and on ways to achieve financial independence. Skip explained each step clearly and made it totally understandable. I can indeed build my own home. He is a sincere and caring individual and I’m grateful to have taken his course.”

From Stanton H. Brown, Jr. And Constance G. Brown; “We attended a two day log building course taught by Skip Ellsworth. Skip is very knowledgeable and very experienced in all types of log house construction. We learned how to build an excellent log house in this two day class. I highly recommend Skip and his class to you. You will not regret taking this class.”

From Maya Brounsberger; “Skip Ellsworth’s course was more than a 22 hour immersion into the secrets of log house building. It was also an inspiring and entertaining discourse on the state of the union, financial independence, personal freedom and their interrelationship. I came into this class with a dream, a remote dream of someday building my own log home – and I left this class believing it is absolutely going to be done”

From Ken Sturdevant; “Skip’s class took a mysterious subject, log house building, and demystified it. He not only inspired me to take this project seriously, but he gave me the confidence to believe I could successfully complete it. Along the way, Skip also managed to expose me to his interesting philosophical views, and made me aware of the financial rewards that are possible to someone who would like to make a career out of log home building.”

From James Yoshinori Takei; “I took skip’s two day class. His method of teaching makes the students feel they have the power to complete the log house. When students ask question he will answer. At times he will ask questions and the student answers the questions himself. What I learned from Skip is that the student already knows many of the answers, but he just must learn to think for himself. We are so used to have someone think for us that we just forget how. There are teachers who have the answers but can’t explain them so everyone can understand. Many times, teachers have an attitude “above the law” and student’s feelings get hurt, and they don’t want to learn. Skip works with the students, so the students want to learn. When you have the desire, one learns at a faster rate. What Skip gives is knowledge. It is now up the student to apply this knowledge. Each student is different. Skip wants you to think for yourself. This is freedom. At one time, freedom was what America was all about.”

From Joshua Gordon; “Skip Ellsworth patiently, with charisma, explains and indoctrinates his students into having the knowledge and confidence to construct log homes. I am hereditarily familiar with the building trade, and learned much in Skip’s class that I never knew. Also, I can testify that many people who never built anything in their lives achieved confidence they could build their own log home and handle contingencies involved with actually doing it. I watched this happen all in 22 hours of instruction. It was amazing.”

From Jim Wells; “I was totally at a loss about what to expect in this seminar. I did not know how or what you were going to teach. So, at first I was unsure about how I was being taught – but decided not to question anything. It all worked out for the best. Skip’s course taught me way more than just how to build a log house. Skip taught me things about life and society that I probably would never have otherwise known. After I apply this knowledge, I am sure that the words “freedom and happiness” will be very much a part of my vocabulary.”

From Laura Rollins; “Skip Ellsworth is an honor to know. He opened a whole world of knowledge and an avenue of direction and possibilities, with clear cut direction and patience, and divulged the knowledge and skill to provide a superior house in all ways, to last for generations to come. It was truly the MOST worthwhile of weekends and experiences.”

From Rob Aheu; “Subject; Log house class taught by Skip Ellsworth. 1) Skip’s knowledge about the subject is no doubt the best in the field. 2) Skip’s ability to teach and convey truths beyond just the subject matter is a rare quality.”

From Mike Brandt; “Skip Ellsworth’s class in building log houses is the real deal if you want to invest in building or buying a log house. His method of teaching makes you think for yourself. It’s not just “here it is.” You have to work for it. This way, when you are out there actually building your house you have confidence, the ability to decide between different options, and know how to build something that will last. The class is inspirational, humorous, and even insightful. It will be the best investment you’ll ever make.”

From Gary Barnette; “Skip is a wonderful instructor. He took the mystery out of log home construction. If you want to know how to build an inexpensive home, take Skip’s class.”

From Rob McBride; “After taking your two day class, I feel very confident about building and finishing a log home. I have no construction experience and wouldn’t have attempted to build any home on my own prior to taking your class. Thank you Skip for saving me a LOT of time and money. In appreciation…”

From Eric Rogers; “I would like to take the time to tell you how much I enjoyed your two day course on log home building. The information got from your course will enable me to begin construction of my vacation cabin. I hope to build a larger home after the vacation cabin is finished. Thanks once again, and I’ll send photos of our project when it gets underway.”

From Craig Cypler; “A very informative and interesting class. I now have the knowledge and confidence to build my own log house. I’m not a man of many words. I get right to the point. Every minute of this class was more than worth my time. Thank you, Skip.”

From Don Woolman; “I’ve just taken Skip Ellsworth’s log construction course. I was very impressed with this class. It was very complete and Skip teaches you how to handle all of the problems you might encounter. Skip is a very funny dude, yet he takes the course very seriously. When I took this course I didn’t know anything about building a log house. Now That I’ve taken the course, I know that I can build a very strong log house.”

From Rolf D. Schooler; “This course answers all of the questions about log houses. It is simple and easy to understand. I will recommend this class to anyone thinking of buying or building a log home. After the two days of class you are crammed full of information and ready to do it on your own. Also, you are accepted into a family of like-minded people with the same goals and dreams. Thanks, Skip.”

From C.Y. Kim; “Thank you for a wonderful class this past week-end. As a true beginner, I learned a great deal about construction and building a log house. I appreciate your generosity in sharing your experience and expertise. The manner in which shared yourself and your vast knowledge was very special. I also greatly enjoyed your beautiful collection of antiques. I too have always felt that I was only a custodian of the many things I collect. Your home is impressive, and a good model for us to strive for. Again, I think you for a very memorable week-end.”

From Shari Blevins; “I found Skip’s class to be extremely interesting and informative. I now know enough to build a log house, and this class will help me avoid the many mistakes I would otherwise have made.”

From Captain Chuck Randall; “I just completed Skip’s class in log house building. In my opinion it is a most righteous class. In only two days, I was taught everything I need to know to build my own log home. I feel that the methods of construction taught by Skip are most excellent. Also, Skip is a great guy. Sincerely,”

From Scott A. Berry; “I found the class to be very informative, not only about log houses but in all aspects of building a home of your own and living independently. Skip is a very intelligent fellow.”

From Trudy Tischer; “Skip’s log house building course is fantastic. I now feel confident that I can build a log house. The instruction is precise. NOTHING is left out. The course is worth every cent.”

From David Nagel; “I have fantasized for twelve years about constructing a log home on my five acres in Southeast Alaska. At the conclusion of Skip’s class, I have the knowledge and the confidence to construct a log house there.”

From Dan and Teri Pelton; “Skip’s two day class on log home building gave us the confidence to tackle our own log building project. We came away feeling prepared.”

From R. J. Giovannoni; “I was fortunate enough to take the two day, 22 hour class on the construction of log homes. I now know that I can start and finish a log home. The teacher, Skip Ellsworth taught me everything I need to know to build my own log house. If you wish to get a thorough lesson of how to build a log house call Skip.”

From Denise Smith; “A lot of practical, worthwhile information packed into two days. Now it seems possible to have more control in my life. Great class.”

From David Clark; “As a person who has spent hours leafing through every log house building publication I can find, I recommend that you save a lot of time and just attend Skip’s seminar on the practical as well as the philosophical aspects of log home handcrafting.”

From Jim Owens; “I recently took Skip’s course and found it to be very informative and would highly recommend it to anyone interested in building a log home.”

From Brian McGough; “Being a junior at the University of Washington I found Skip’s seminar to be a very interesting tool I plan to use in the future. With the high price of living in the U.S. I feel confident that I could build my own house. I would recommend Skip’s class to anyone.”

From Kent A. McSoule; “You’ve shown me that there is more to life than the old every-day grind. Now I’ve got something to work hard for and actually enjoy. I’ve decided to build a log home for my wife and kids — and me, of course.”

From Mark Scott; “I thought I knew a lot about building before I attended Skip’s two day course on log home construction. I feel anyone that is going to build or buy a log home, no matter how much they’ve read should attend this course. It will save you many thousands of dollars and a lot of grief.”

From Vickie Flynn; “Skip’s log house building course – wow ! It’s not only a great, practical “how to” for those who want to build their own home, but it’s also freedom for yourself that you’re building. It’s fun, it’s informative, and most of all it’s eye-opening.”

From Mary Ankenbrandt; “The course in log home building is wonderful as a way of training an individual towards self reliance. It is in concrete acts that one’s philosophy becomes obvious. As a sculptor, I feel the building method that Skip teaches is very intuitive and sound. I look forward to the solid masses and experiencing the strength of my own log house.”

From John Fields; “Thank you! Your log home building course has been a very enlightening experience. You have presented techniques that I’m certain are still around primarily because they work so well, they are relatively simple, and they don’t require tremendous outlays of cash up front. Before I took your course, I thought of building a log home… now I’m CERTAIN I will. My wife hopes to attend your next class.”

From Steve Frazer; “I wrote this note seven times, but don’t have the words in my vocabulary to describe how good Skip’s course is.” Thanks, Skip.”

From Marc Trinquet; “I am very glad that I attended your log building seminar last weekend. I appreciate your insight and dedication.”

From Lanny Jacquemart; “Mr. Ellsworth enlightened me on how to build a log structure and he set me straight with the true methods involved. He’s a wonderfully colorful man !”

From Debbie Patterson; “My husband and I took Skip’s class at different times. I feel that we are now capable of building a log home using the methods and techniques we learned at Skip’s class.”

From William A. Wilson; “Things are changing for the Oregon logger. Now that we are putting all of our trees into reserves, I am looking for a new vocation. My father worked as a logger for 50 years. Both of my grandfathers worked as loggers most of their lives. Working with trees has been a good life. Now that I’ve taken your class, I am sure that I can go out and start building log houses for a living – tomorrow. Thanks.”

From Joan Gomez Fields; “I have just taken Skip Ellsworth’s log house building course. I knew nothing of building log homes prior to taking the course. I have had no prior knowledge of architecture, engineering, carpentry, or wood/log construction. Now, after this two-day course, I can build a log house using Skip’s easy, common-sense methods of construction.”

From David E. Marsh; “I just finished the log house building course given by Skip Ellsworth today. He was very thorough and answered all of the questions we asked. I plan to build a log house in the next year, and now I am confident I can do it well.”

From John D. Ware; “Skip Ellsworth taught us everything we need to know about log home construction. Not only does he know a lot about this subject, but he is a great teacher. A master of his art.”

From Dave Herbet; “I just took Skip Ellsworth’s class in log house building. I believe with the knowledge I now possess, I can easily build a log house. His class in one weekend taught me everything I need to know, and I very much appreciate the opportunity to have attended it. It put a fire in my belly and knowledge in my head. Thank you, Skip.”

From Ted Whittaker; “In a world of high-rise buildings, traffic jams, and noise pollution I found my two day experience learning to stack firewood not only a nice diversion from the above aforementioned, but equally satisfying as a new resource which I will be able to pursue for profit and pleasure wherever the winds shall blow. Thanks Skip.”

From Rob Crocker; “Not only was I fully informed of every possible aspect of log home building, I was also informed of every common mistake that people make. I also enjoyed Skip’s humor and appreciated the way he makes people “think for themselves” to find the solutions. I highly recommend this course to anyone.”

From Stan McCraigis, Deloris McCraigis, and Steven V. McCraigis; “The class of Skip Ellsworth is very exciting. He simplifies all the processes of how to build a log home. We were very impressed with this method of building and teaching. You will have a comfortable and strong log home. You have to take the class to find out why.”

From Jimmy M. Sabin; “I have taken Skip’s class on log house building. It has been the best class and one of the fastest weekends I’ve ever spent, and I have taken a lot of classes at Boeing. On a sale of 1 to 10, this class is a 12.”

From Dennis J. Thornton. I just attended Skip Ellsworth’s class in log house building. This two day class is complete and gives you all of the important information you need. It teaches you the proper ways of building log houses that are strong, that will last, and that will have a large value for resale. Skip also answers any questions that you may have during the class.”

From Mike Kyer; “Mr. Ellsworth’s class is an excellent blend of useful practical facts on log home building, mixed with his own interesting philosophy of life and liberty in the U.S.A. He puts his points across in this seminar. His sense of humor is also very much present. I’m grateful for the chance to meet Skip and gain some of his knowledge.”

From Matt Holliday; “I took Skip’s two day course on log home building. My wife also took the course. We were amazed and very pleased with the amount of information we were able to absorb in just two days. Not only did it teach us how to build, but it reaffirmed our conviction to build with logs. It was a very good course.”

From Dick Tuttle; “I have no prior experience in building or construction. After taking Skip’s class I feel confident that I can build a log house using the methods he taught. Skip explained everything in clear language so even the most inexperienced person can grasp the concepts and methods. I will recommend this method of building and Skip’s class to everyone.”

From Tom Rigby; “I recommend taking this two day log house seminar to anyone who wants to build a log house. You are shown how to use very basic tools to accomplish an impressive feat – to build a log house. Skip is very good at presenting the class so everybody can understand how to do it. Skip passes on a lot of knowledge that should not be lost. It is part of our American Heritage.”

From Alan J. Cook; “I just finished taking skip’s class, and anyone who doesn’t take the class will miss out on an opportunity to save thousands of dollars when they build their log home. I am enthusiastic, and Skip is one awesome dude. Don’t miss him.”

From Mary Roundtree; “For the past two days, I have been attending Skip Ellsworth’s class. I have been considering a log structure for a home for several years. I am a wife and mother of five sons, and seven grand children. So I wasn’t sure this would be something that I could conceivable do. But on completion of the class I must say I am excited and ready to start building my own log home. Most important, I feel completely confident that we can build a log structure. Incidentally, five other members of my family also took Skip’s class and we all enjoyed it very much. Skip made the class very informative, interesting, and fun. I highly recommend the class to anyone who has ever dreamed of living in a log home.”

From Glen A. Roundtree; “I’ve found that Skip’s class was much more educational that I thought it would be. Not only does he show you the right way to build a log home, but he also explains the wrong ways that the “kit” builders would try to sell you at a very escalated price. Now I can build my own log house – much better than the kits.”

From Don Hanson; “In the two day class on log home building that I took from Skip, my eyes were opened on how really simple it is to build a log home. Although some of the steps in the process require some hard work, and others are just plain tedious (peeling logs, chinking, etc.) the overall job need not take long to complete. When compared with the ordeal of a 30 year mortgage, the hard work is a small price to pay for the years of rustic charm and comfort that your own log home will one day give you. Thank you, Skip.”

From Jane I. Bohannon; “I recommend Skip’s class to anyone interested in knowing how to build a log house. I found the course very interesting and informative. It was taught in an organized and thought-provoking manner. I enjoyed the course very much as well as the teacher. He is a very thought-invoking person.”

From Paula and Dave Hart; “My husband and I have been working non-stop for three years to find a way to buy land and a home for cash. Knowing of our intentions, a close friend who had attended Skip Ellsworth’s class a few months prior, encouraged us to spend the week-end at this seminar. How grateful we are for his persistence of our friend. For the first time we can see a road-map to creating our dream in a debt free manner.”

From Jeff Smith; “I attended Skip’s log home building course and found that it was both informative and entertaining. I gained the confidence to build a log vacation home using Skip’s techniques. Skip passes on many labor saving techniques that would take an individual a lifetime of log home projects to learn on his own. Finally, Skip genuinely loves log homes and wants to pass on the knowledge and quality of these construction techniques to others who share his enthusiasm.”

From Sue Hansen; “I took Skip’s two day class this weekend, although I have never had any kind of building or construction experience. I love the distinctive, rustic look of log homes but I didn’t think I would be able to build one. I realize now, after the course, that I will be able to help with all of facets of this project. How exciting to have the opportunity to work on a project with my husband that will be a beautiful, solid, and inexpensive home. I’m thankful for the knowledge and confidence that Skip gave me to accomplish a dream.”

‘from Heather Larson; “I just attended Skip’s class and it was excellent. He is a great teacher and he is very helpful in answering all of the questions. The material is exceptionally easy to understand the way Skip teaches it.”

From Brian Wyzbecki; “I just finished one of Skip Ellsworth’s log house classes. The two day “happening” was just fantastic. “Here’s the deal,” as Skip so often put it. I never thought of plunking down money to go to a seminar that I didn’t think would enable me to fulfill one of my life’s goals. That goal is to build a log house. Before Skip’s class I was heading towards “kit-country.” At this point, after taking the class, I will definitely build my own log home instead. In plain language, Skip’s class is a wonderful way to get back to the basics of what life is all about. I highly recommend this two-day class.”

From Kevin Parkhurst; “I just wanted to share with you my enthusiasm on having attended your two day course on log home building. Before attending, I had the desire – and now I have the knowledge. Thanks to you, I can do the project right.”

From Richard Kosinski; “Upon taking Skip’s class, I noticed his technique of purposefully teaching in an entertaining manner. I thoroughly enjoyed all the little tricks and analogies utilizing his many years of experience. I learned a lot about the processes involved in building log homes. I consider this class to be the most comprehensive learning experience I have ever enjoyed.”

From Dave and Karen Soberanis; “After taking Skip’s class on log home building, we confidently believe we’ve learned how to completely build the best possible log home – efficiently and effectively. But just as important, we’ve learned how to be free from our expensive 30 year mortgage and the banks that currently control our lives. We’ve learned the way to a new, and for us a better life.”

From David Jannick; “The two day class taught by Skip Ellsworth was very straight-forward and to the point. This class teaches the good and bad points of various methods of log construction. The bad points of some of the “kit” build houses are covered in detail and the reasons for doing things in the prescribed manner are explained in a logical and non-technical terms. After attending this course I know that I can build my own log home.”

From Jeanneth Mardonas; “I attended the log house class taught by Skip Ellsworth. This class was very informative and gave me the confidence to be able to follow through and build my own log house. As Skip says – an important part of what he does is to simply organize the knowledge and information you already have and relate it to log house building. Thanks for all the information.”

From John Swanson; “I found Skip Ellsworth’s log house class to be full of meaty chunks of hands on material. I am a builder and I found Skip to be well informed and he presented the information very clearly. Foremost, I think Skip is a great educator and could teach anything he knew well.”

From Herb Adkinson and Becky Adkinson; “I’ve always been interested in having a log home, but felt that it was out of my reach financially. After taking Skip’s two day seminar, my entire outlook has changed, and it won’t be but just a few more weeks before I start construction of my own log home.”

From Damon O’Connor; “I have just completed Skip Ellsworth’s log house course. While I can’t regurgitate all I have learned I will say that I was amazed. Amazed that in two days Skip could teach us everything from how to deal with loggers to where to buy cheap hinges for the doors. I have had a full two days and am about to go home. Thanks so much Skip. You are an inspiration.”

From Hank O’Connor; After taking Skip’s class I’m certain that building a log home is feasible, practical and relatively inexpensive. The basic concepts are applicable to many other structures besides log houses.”

From Evellyn Hill; “I first heard about Skip Ellsworth’s log house class through a number of my friends up in Seattle, Washington. The thought of owning my own home has always been a dream to me. Until I took Skip’s class, I never thought that my dream would become a reality. However, through Skip’s simplistic and logical approach I am now confident that I will soon build my own log home. The class is straight-forward and he teaches various methods for constructing a log home, giving the pros and cons of each. I found him to be very through and responsive to any questions that come up. I recommend his course to anyone interested in log home construction.”

From Autumn O’Mahoney; “One of the peak experiences in life is sharing the expertise of someone who has mastered a skill or an art form. Skip Ellsworth, master log home builder, teaches a two day seminar so full of vital information, his students are able to go out and build their own log homes. He brings the knowledge of five generations of log house builders, and 30 years of teaching at the University of Washington. He miraculously condenses the essence of log houses in this crash course of incredibly precise instruction. Skip can travel from coast to coast and stay in the homes of his students in every state. The best part of this is his dedication to helping so many people free themselves from the economic enslavement of a 30 year mortgage. This is indeed a remarkable lifetime achievement and body of work He inspires his students to accomplish something significant and makes it seem easy. Thank you and bless you, Skip.”

From Glen McBarron; “I took the class mostly to be independent from a 30 year mortgage. I’ve always wanted to build and live in a log home, and I am happy that Skip taught me what I need to know to accomplish this.”

From Glen Starkey; “Skip’s class is well thought out. He lays out the information in steps that are so easy to follow that anyone can understand the process. This class gave me a vehicle for reaching financial freedom. Log houses are so much easier and cheaper to build than conventional homes. Log houses have a much longer life expectancy and require very little maintenance. My wife and I are getting ready to build log homes for a living so we can achieve financial freedom. I recommend Skip’s class.”

From Ruth Sterling; “Skip’s class was exceptional and I’m sure I won’t have any problems building a log home by myself. The information is so clear that a child can understand it. He also shows you how you can be free by using log houses as a financial tool.

From Scott Dubble; “The main theme of this course seemed to be freedom through simplicity, and the application of basic principles to the building of log homes. The course took place in 23 hours over two days. It was very thorough in its coverage of specific techniques for construction homes from raw logs. It is a well constructed course and proceeded at an optimum pace, with no time wasted, and the information was covered so thoroughly there were not questions to be asked at the end of the course. The material that was presented is invaluable. The magnitude of the potential to realize a significant degree of economic freedom is difficult to convey. Log homes are so inexpensive, simple to build and maintain, and efficient that it is difficult to understand why anyone would pay so much more for so much less. These were certainly two of the most valuable days of my life.”

From Mike Brown; “Skip’s class is a must !!! He gives you the information you need, whatever your goals. From necessary tools, materials and how to do it. He takes you through every step in the construction process. Most important, he inspires you to be free. Beautiful !!! Thank you.”

From Idehra; “All I can say to Skip Ellsworth is “thank you.” Where to start and stop the “thank you’s” is the hardest part. So: 1) Thank you for your time. 2) Thank you for your hospitality. 3) Thank you for your passion and joy and pride in log structures on a “do it yourself” basis. 4) Extra thanks for demonstrating and saying, “If I can do it, so can you. 5) Etc. Anyone who hasn’t experienced the inside and outside of your “log castle” wouldn’t believe it. Beyond description !!!”

From Gordon James; “My wife and I have dreamed of owning our own log home, but all of our experiences to date had convinces us that it would be many years down the road. However, Skip has shown us that we can probably build our own log home in the very near future. You can count on me to spread the word about log homes. Thanks.”

From Joe Keesla; “I learned how to build a solid, low cost log home. Thanks to Skip for his time and knowledge.”

From Wendy Wright; “I attended your class this weekend, and I enjoyed it very much. I never knew there was such a passionate group of log home builders and am glad I can now build my own house in the company of such a group. I will definitely recommend your class to my friends.”

From Steve Smalls; “I came here with no doubts or expectations and left here only with no doubts. I expect to build a log house in the near future – thanks to your teachings. Because of your dog Fang, I even like pit-bulls now. Your friend,”

From Stefan and Marian Anders; “My wife and I took Skip’s tow day class. Before the class, we know absolutely nothing about building a log home. We leave confident that we can build a log home by ourselves. Also, we will be able to do it within our limited budget. Skip explained the principles clearly, with easy-to-follow analogies and explanations. We recommend his class highly.”

From J. Gretchen Martinez; “As a single professional interior designer, I was uncertain that I could successfully build my own log home. Now that I have the education and expertise that is necessary, I have the confidence to try. Thank you.”

From Pam O’Connor; “I took Skip Ellsworth’s two day seminar, and I now realize that I can realistically build my own log house – which has been my dream for 10 years. Skip teaches with simplicity and common sense. I am very excited for my future and for the future of my family.”

From Rob Bale; “When I first got here I thought Skip was not a person I thought I could ever associate with personally. However, when he was answering my questions in the class I soon came to understand that he was just a regular guy, and he considered himself to be my friend. I was very surprised by this, that he should really care about me and about answering my questions. Can you imagine, he invited me to call him by phone any time of the day or night if I ever have any further log house question – even though he hadn’t ever met me prior to the class. Actually, when the class was over I realized that I would never have any questions because I already learned everything I need to know to build a log house of my own. When my first log house is completed, I will sell it and then use the profit to build two more houses. I am sure that I can make a good living building log houses for other people.”

From Laurie Kotyk; “I really want to thank you for teaching me the MOST SIMPLE method for building my own log home. It is so simple, I felt stupid – well, not really. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Skip.”

From Urbano Eijan; “Amazing !! The course made me realize that I can build a log home of my own and how simple it is. Throughout the course Skip made the language simple so even the most inexperienced of us could understand. After the course, I was not only confident that I could build a log house, but I KNEW I could do it. Now I am looking forward to selling my house in the city and building my own log home in the country. Thanks, Skip, your course is invaluable.”

From Gil Angle; “Skip is indeed an unorthodox man. He ‘s a great guy/human being. He CARES. It is difficult to find sincere people in this day and age. Skip is a “straight-shooter.” He wants to see people succeed and become “free.” I’ve been searching for a vehicle to do just that, and I have finally found it. Thank you my friend.”

From Marty LeBaron; “The log home building class I attended was excellent. My wife has been after me for years to build a house with rocks or other building materials and so far I had no desire as I am not very mechanically inclined. I came to Skip’s course with a lot of skepticism, but my skepticism has now disappeared completely. It has been replaced by an enthusiasm that I never had before. While watching the building of a log house during this course I wanted to be doing it myself. I am leaving with the desire to get started immediately.”

From Peter Nichols; “Skip’s course was well thought out and most informative. I found Skip to be an excellent teacher and motivator. He was a well of knowledge, and taught in such a way as to encourage his students to think.”

From Becky Van Schouwen; “I have just complete Skip Ellsworth’s two day log construction class. I now feel totally confident that I can build a sturdy, economical and beautiful log house. Skip has dispelled my fears and confusion about all the varied information and misinformation available from books and kit log house builders. I will same many thousands of dollars and huge amounts of time by using the methods that I learned from Skip.”

From Leonard Rankin; “I was impressed at the depth of information and teaching expertixe of Mr. Ellsworth. I would highly recommend his class to anyone 9 to 90 to learn how to prepare for and build a log home. If you would like more information about the course please call or write. You won’t be sorry. Thanks Skip.”

From Gregory Collett; “In taking Skip’s course I found it to be highly informative and exciting. I have been in the building trades since I was 14 years old, and I am very familiar with all aspects of construction. After learning the cost effective way of building with logs and comparing the extremely high cost of building “normal” houses there is no comparison in my mind. A log house is the only answer !!! I would and am going to steer everyone I encounter toward log construction and Skip’s course.”

From Arlene Cross; “Skip presents his course in a very organized manner. He was very clear and helpful with his instructions. He taught me enough so that I will be able to help my husband complete a log home on some property we have. I feel that this is a tremendous opportunity for us. Thank you Skip.”

From Jack Cross; “In two days, Skip taught me everything I need to know about log houses. Without this class I probably would have bought a “kit” house not knowing the many problems that are often associated with “kit” methods of construction. Now I am confident that I can build a log house by myself.”

From Dan Heinberg; “This course is exactly everything and much more that you would expect. Skip is very much like a black-belt in Karate in the way he teaches the techniques that make it possible for you to succeed in doing whatever is necessary to get the job done. Nowhere else could I have obtained this knowledge in so short a time.”

From Sonja Heinberg: “In view of just completing Skip’s class, I find it so unreal at the knowledge I am walking out with. Ant it only took me two full days. The instruction was understandable and complete enough for my husband and I to build our own log home. An awesome class.”

From Terry A. Hunt; “I highly recommend the log home course taught by Skip Ellsworth. I’ve read many books about log home building and researched many “kit” log homes. Because of Skip’s class I now realize that I have saved huge amounts of time and many thousands of dollars even before I’ve begun to build. Even though I have no practical construction experience I know that I can now build a log home.”

From Darryl Gonyea; “I found Skip’s class to be very inspiring, informational and worth every second and every cent I spent. Only you can change your future in a positive way – and Skip’s class gives you that opportunity. Thank you.”

From Annette Koch; “My husband took your class about seven months ago – so I’ve had to listen to his excitement about building a log home since that time. Now that I’ve had a chance to take the class myself, I can understand his excitement – and share in it. The class was great and I would take it again anytime. We are eager to begin work on our own log house. Thank you, Skip.”

From Vi and Bob Tasler: “Thank you for a very informative class this Saturday and Sunday. We really appreciated your attention to the details. I believe we can successfully complete the log home of our dreams. Thank you.”

From Jim Creelman; “After taking Skip’s seminar, I have a comprehensive understand about building a log home. I feel very confident I will now be able to build my own log home (with no “kits”) and I have every intention of doing just that.”

From Ron Parker; “Excellent material, very knowledgeable, extremely well presented. Thanks a million.”

From Justine Foy; “After learning log house construction with Skip Ellsworth’s methods, I feel I will definitely be able to build a log house of my own. I now have the knowledge off all the details, tools, and tactics – the do’s and the don’ts – for building a log house. This is a wonderful course and I recommend it wholeheartedly.”

From Rose Stamborsky; “I took Skip Ellsworth’s seminar. I did not know anything about building before I came here, but with what I learned from Skip in two days I feel I could build my own log home. Much appreciated, Skip.”

From Dave Rohona; “Skip does a tremendous job of teaching everything you need to know about log houses. He encourages simplicity and creativity. I gained a wealth of knowledge. Skip’s outlook on self sufficiency was a highlight for me. My sister took his course 5 years ago, and she highly recommended that I do the same. I am very glad that I did. I would highly recommend this course to anyone.”

From Blaine E. Leum; “Great program ! I gratefully realize that you’ve passed on enough knowledge for me to build my own log house. Thanks a lot.”

From Jeff Mirgon; “I took Skip’s course to get a basic background of log home construction. I got much more than that. I learned everything I need to know to build my own. My uncle took the course a year ago and came out EXCITED. Now I know why. I will soon be living in my own log home.”

From Shirley Fryan; “I took Skip’s class in June. I thoroughly enjoyed the class and learned all that I need to know to build my own home I fee very confident, and I expect to build my own beautiful, durable log home this year.”

From Randy Collins; “My wife enrolled me in Skip’s class because we want to build a log house. I feel comfortable that I now have the “know how” acquire from Skip’s class to achieve this goal.”

From Barlow Buescher; “These two days spent with Skip will save us hundreds of hours and many thousands of dollars when we build our log house. As I complete the course I am certain I have the knowledge to build my own log home. We are now ready to make the dream into a reality.”

From Jim Lloyd; “I took Skip’s class for log home building this weekend. It was a very high quality class, and it taught me everything necessary to build my own log home. I have no doubt at all regarding virtually every aspects. This has given me a whole new dream, and changed the direction of my life. This was an excellent experience, and not really something you can put a price on.”

From Shiela Kramer; “Thanks, Skip for taking the mystery out of log house building… and in only two days !! I now feel that I can go out and build my own log house. Your system of teaching is valuable because it is complete and does not require me to give up my current occupation to receive this knowledge. Thanks.”

From J. Greenowalt; “The seminar was very informative and one of the best investments that I have ever made. It was thoroughly informative and enjoyable. Your house is amazing, your philosophies interesting and your knowledge of the material unsurpassed. Your have really given me the knowledge necessary to build my own log home. Good show !!”

From Laura Sapp; “This note is in regards to Skip Ellsworth’s 22 hour class in log house building. It is unbelievable informative. The information will be beneficial to builders from all levels of experience. Skip is the best resource and he has an open attitude about helping.”

From Wally Farbo; “I was raised in Montana on a wheat farm, and as a boy I helped with general repairs to barns, buildings, and metal buildings. I learned more in Skip’s class in two days than I learned all the while I was growing up – regarding the principles of building and making things so they last. The course condenses a lifetime of trial and error, and theories that have been tried. Everything in Skip’s course is taught in a busy but fun and interesting way.”

From Joseph Nattress; “I took Skip’s class and I was given an incredible amount of information about how to build log homes of different styles. I learned the best ways to do it, and the worst ways to do it – and the reasoning that lies behind the principles of GOOD log construction. After taking this class, I am ready to build my own log home.”

From Nancy Lundquist and Chris Lundquist; “My son and I really enjoyed learning about building a log home and Skip didn’t Skip a thing.”

From Brian J. Marsh; Skip Ellsworth’s course is nothing less than the experience of a lifetime. He taught me everything I need to know in order to build my own log home. His house is packed tastefully with antiques, artifacts of the ancient type, and memorabilia of a range that borders on the unbelievable. The man himself is very laid-back and extremely knowledgeable on many topics – pertaining to many facets of life. I learned a great deal of things that I will never forget – that will forever change the way I look at life.”

Gene Hamacher; “The class covers an amazing amount of material on log houses, general construction, specifics of wood and building code requirements. Skip has many examples and stories to back up the theories that he was teaching. What we learned was what you “really” need to know to build a log house. A lot of the instruction was very unique, as a result of Skip interjecting his philosophies and ideals. The class was very enjoyable and extremely informative.”

From Don Clark; “I took Skip’s class out of desperation with the price of houses. I found Skip and the class to be very informative. I look forward to building my own house. It was time well spent. Thanks, Skip.”

From Kim Schmidt; “After taking Skip’s class you realize that building a log home is the only feasible way to go. It is not only smart from an economic standpoint, but from an environmental one as well. I am confident that I can now build my own log house.”

From Lorin Hayden; “Skip, I am a river guide. Chilkat Guides. Box 701 Haines Alaska 99827. The office is at “Mile )” Haines Highway. Red building on water. Come by. Friendship, car, boat, place to stay.”

From Jami Elliot; “I attended Skip’s seminar in February. My husband attended last year. We recently purchased property to build a log home on. My husband felt that from his taking the class I could benefit also. In the first half of the first day, I felt I had already received my money’s wroth. Questions and comments were always welcomed. Our group was very comfortable with the way Skip taught us. I feel eager and confident to start our first log home, and we owe that to Mr. Ellsworth.”

From James Moore; “Taking Skip’s course is a real eye opening experience. He lays it all out in black and white. No sugar coating. He tells it like it is. I am totally impressed.”

From Tom Calne; “After Skip’s course, I took all of my previous ideas about how to build a log house and threw them out the window. I had no idea it was so simple and methodical. Using Skip’s method, it can be done “by the numbers.” I really enjoyed myself in this class, and I learned enough to get the entire job done.

From Cory Koch; “after completing this course I feel that I have the confidence to tackle a project that can set me free from being a slave to my home and the bank. It helped me to realize that no dream is so big that it can’t become a reality if you set your mind to it, make plans, organize, and work hard.”

From Dawn Strandell; “Having completed Skip Ellsworth’s course this weekend, I am sure the information presented will prove to be priceless in my future. I feel confident that I can build my own home with the knowledge I’ve gained. Regarding Skip personally, he is an individual – and I find that to be refreshing as I grow more and more tired of dealing with the drones which populate this country. Thank you.”

From James McMillan; “Skips course was extremely beneficial to me. I previously had no idea how to build a log house – and within two days, I have become confident that I can build a structurally sound log house all by myself. The course was presented in a friendly, informal way, that was very effective. I strongly recommend this course to anyone interested in building a log house.”

From Ron Hovde; “This was a valuable “back to basics” approach to homes and life. Skip Ellsworth has a valuable gift for teaching.”

From Matt Hill; “Thanks Skip for showing me all your possibly need to know to build a log house – and how to have a plan, start, and build log homes. I also want to thank your for telling me about some of your experiences with Bruce Lee. I’m really into martial-arts, and I will practice the information while training. I will build a log house that will make you proud of me. Your good friend,”

From H. Allen Olson; “Thanks so much for the valuable information we received in your course. It has caused me to make a definitive decision to build my own log house as opposed to buying a “kit” log house. I was amazed at how easily you packed all the information I needed to know into just two days. I hope you continue to teach, and I’m looking forward to seeing you on PBS.”

From Jerry and Lauri A Gray; “This class provided my wife and I with the information, know-how, and experience in order to build ourselves a home that is better and less expensive than the conventional method. We feel completely prepared to begin the process and will do it soon. Thank you, Skip, for giving us something that can not be put into words.”

From Doug Jensen; “Skip’s class was just what I needed – a way out of a mortgage – a way to build my dream house cheap !! It was clear and understandable, fun and exciting. The bottom line is, Skip offers an excellent vehicle to change a lot of negatives that currently exist in most people’s lives.”

From George Bond; “Skip Ellsworth’s class was the simplest, most effective and most functional class I’ve ever attended. I now have complete confidence that I can build a log home that will last a lifetime. Two days, worth a lifetime.”

From Mary Ann Anderson; “This weekend course in log home building has been an enlightening and enjoyable learning experience. It is truly remarkable that I have learned in such a short period of time how to build a log home. So much freedom as so little cost is a most remarkable gift that you have so graciously given to me. Your insistence that we think things through for ourselves is extraordinarily refreshsing.”

From Fred Buldhaupt; “An outstanding seminar in every respect. Without question the best log house information available anywhere – period. This class is for everyone.”

From Dave Le Roux; “As per the enclosed photo, it’s built but it ain’t finished. I even have thoughts of building another one. Thanks for the help.”

From Dan Johansen; “I am a house builder, but I’ve never built a log house. Your class this weekend has provided me with all the information I need to build a log house of my own. You have enthused me to the point that I believe I will only build log houses from now on. Thank you very much.”

From Patricia Croghan; “Your class is the “missing link” in a book I will be publishing next month. I am in the last editing stages. It is called, “Road To Freedom” and it is about breaking free from the 9 to 5 with as little pain as possible. Housing was the question mark (?) and I only knew of yurts as an alternative to traditional housing – but they are too expensive, and not a permanent solution for anything but nomads. So…I thank you for coming into my life at the appropriate time with the necessary solution to this problem I will be contacting you to request permission to mention your classes in my book.”

From Don Denney; “Belated thanks for your great class that I attended with my sons Deven and Troy. We had no experience as builders, but were able, as a result of your instruction, to erect the house in the enclosed photo. It is 32 feet square inside measurements, and sits on a continuous foundation, 10 inches wide. It is located in pierce County, about one mile north of Key Center. We hope you will stop for a visit if you are ever in the area. Thanks again for your past help.”

From Rex and Terri Nelson; “Thanks for conducting the log house seminars. You have given us an achievable dream and vision for the future that will help us to have a home of our own. We purchased a ten acre parcel of land south of Port Orchard. Grading and stump removal for the house, barn and drain field was completed a week ago. As soon as I can install the well and septic system in about a month of so, I’ll be moving a mobile home onto the property so we can live on site as we build our log house. We expect to begin construction this spring. We will send photos of the house. Your friend,”

From Mike Brieske; “Thanks. I just loved every minute of your class. It has changed my outlook on life. They broke the mold when they made you. Take care.”

From Stephen M. Maas; “Effective, enlightening and for my mind overwhelming. I feel I can do this. I feel supported now and in the future. Thank you, skip. I now welcome the opportunity to shut off my brain for awhile in an effort to recover from the weekend. The only thing I can think of to say, is WOW !!!”

From Nick Longley; “I, Nick Longley took the two day log home course given by Skip Ellsworth. I found it to be extremely enlightening. Mr. Ellsworth obviously has a total grasp on the knowledge of log house construction – from scratch. He was able to clearly and concisely convey that information to me. I feel that the expertise that he imparted to me will definitely enable me to build my own log home. A wonderful class, and a helluva nice guy.”

From Nate and JoAnne; “Like so many other people that have taken your class I can’t thank you enough. One weekend has changed our life course and goals and believe me it feels so right, so natural – the way it should. Thanks my friend.”

From Gregory Mumm; “Your class opened so many new avenues for us we are hardly sure of where to begin. One thing we are sure of is that we feel we owe you much more than merely the price of admission to your class. If ever there is anything we can do for you please let us know. You will be interested to know that we have already begun to build. We will send you a few pictures as soon as they are developed.”

From Bill Finlayson; “The instructor in this course is outstanding. He really knows his material. All aspects of log construction were more than covered. He gave all the students time to thing through the processes – to let us establish the picture in our own minds. That’s the best way to learn. Outstanding course !! Don’t stop, please.”

From Jabe Mooney; “Skip’s class not only provided the basic concepts of building (to a non-building female), but also explained in detail the benefits of a log home. The log home industry has always interest me and Skip dove into the basic building methods available and the benefits of each. The thorough class not only prepared me for building my own log dream house, but it also excited me to a new “possible” business plan. The class is a must for anyone interested in log home building. I enjoyed every minute.”

From Frankie Bouchier; “In a very short time, we covered an incredible amount of information and received the benefit of Skip’s great depth of wisdom and understanding concerning log house building. The course is very practical and with this foundation and the special secret tips and techniques Skip shared with us I now feel equipped to begin building my own log house.”

From Jamie Arnold; “Coming into Skip’s class, I didn’t know what to expect. After meeting Skip and seeing his home, I know I had made a really good decision when I decided to come here. I now understand how easy it is to build a log house, and now many doors are now open to me and my growing family.”

From Dr. Todd Atkins; “This class has showed me how easy it is for me to build a log home by myself. I am very excited about starting a home soon. Even with my limited time schedule for working on this project it still should go together quite fast. Having done very little building myself, it just seems so easy.”

From Larry Luidberg; “This has been a very educational and interesting two days for me. There is a wealth of information in my possession for me to sort out and make use of. I know that I now have enough data to begin putting together my plans and start to build my own log house.”

Lynn Jewell; “For the rest of my life I will be happy that I took a weekend to attend your course. Before I came to take this class I had figured out some of the steps I needed to take in my life, and many of the pieces of the puzzle, but I just needed someone to organize them and put them into perspective. You have done that for me, and now I have the knowledge and inspiration to go out and do this on my own.”

From Paul and Ellen Martin; “My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed your class, as well as the Log Home Builders Association meeting yesterday. I typed up our class notes (32 pages on the word processor) and would be glad to mail you a copy or give you a copy at the next meeting if you like. Since my husband is within five years of retiring at IBM, IBM will reimburse a certain percentage of the fees for any classes we complete for the next 8 years. Sop, could you please sign our “Statement of Course Completion” and return it in the enclosed self-addressed stamped envelope. We both look forward to the next meeting at your house. Thanks for your help.”

From Keith Gettis; “This course was a very positive course in that it taught me everything I needed to know about build a REAL log house. I recommend this course to anyone.”

From Jason Foerster; Dear Skip, Just a short note to both tell you thanks and to also curse you. First of all, thanks – because I was really planning to buy a kit log house. Boy am I glad I didn’t make that expensive mistake. But, curses to you because I am so excited about getting started that I’m dreaming about logs, fantasizing about walking through the woods picking out a ridge pole, and irritating my wife by continually looking through the paper while crying out, “Here’s another 2 acre plot that’s no money down.” (I now know what you meant about marriages and home building.) You have set such a fire under my butt that on the Wednesday following the class I sold my first job. I’m building a log fort for my bosses kids in his back yard. He will buy the material and I will do the work for my own experience and practice. After that I’m building a log garage for two of our company’s trucks on the shop property. I have no one to thank but you. I really am interested in any work parties. I’ll do the most menial job there is just to be around the job site and participate. There are so many benefits to doing free work for other people. I grew up out in the country. We always built fences and barns that way. Joe bought the posts and wire, so Stan makes the fence. That kind of barter and trade has gone on since the beginning of time, but has been forgotten in today’s sue-happy, screw the other guy, dog eat dog world It is truly sad. Once again, thank you for a life altering class. I was doubtful that a two day class could educate both the housewife and the house framer, but you sure as hell did it. Not only that, but you made it fun.

From Richard Wood: Skip, I took your class in 1982 and I just took it again. Eric Anderson and I had to duck out after the Ridge Pole Lifting video and so we didn’t get a chance to thank you personally. We didn’t want to break up the flow of things. Both Eric and I are excited about the prospect of building somewhere down the line. We were talking and thinking that it would be good for our gang to start keeping an eye out for good deals on components such as car-decking and floor joists. Also we can start to gather the tools together. Then, once we have some of those things stockpiled, we will be ready to make a move on the logs. Our gang of friends has been camping and playing together for 20 years now and for many of those years we have talked of a communal club-house of some sort. I have always wanted to build a butt-and-pass log structure ever since I took your class in 1982. My wife and I had originally planned to build on 5 acres in Covington but those plans changed. Now a recreation cabin seems more likely. You really made a believer out of Eric and he was impressed with the simple elegance of your method and you really opened his eyes about the kit log houses. Skip, it’s a great seminar and it was a pleasure to refresh my memory and fill in on the techniques. I need to scrounge around in the dresser drawer now and find my wife’s membership card from 1982 so that I can bring her back out to see how your house turned out. Again, thanks so much for caring enough to come back and give this course. It was great.

From Barbara Madsen: Dear Skip, Thank you so much for restoring enthusiasm to my dream. I had placed the class Application in a little cup on my windowsill in November and by chance found it again only 4 days before the class. I could have missed it ! Your generosity in opening your home and sharing so much of your information and experience was certainly beyond my expectations. Now I know what to be doing today, to prepare for tomorrow, that will lead me to actual construction. I will be in contact with you to ask questions, express concerns and triumphs. Thank you again for a most valuable, informative, and friendly class in a wonderful setting. Warm regards,

From Dan LaFoe: Skip, Thanks so much for the informative Log Home Building Seminar. It was an invaluable learning experience. My preconceptions in coming into the seminar were blown away by the knowledge I acquired over the weekend. Now I know much more about methods of construction, misconceptions about log homes, and the log home building industry in general. I am confident I will be able to construct a log home with ease now that I have completed this seminar…I look forward to building a log home within the next year and am happy to know that a valuable resource is so close at hand… Thanks,

From Mavis Medeiros: Dear Skip, I just finished taking your log home building seminar and thought I should write you to thank you for sharing your knowledge and wisdom with us. I took your course so I could help my sister (single mother of 6) build a home and maybe a few cabins for rentals for myself. I now know how to do it from the ground up to the roof, thanks to you. I hope you continue doing this for a very long time because I’d like to send my kids and grandchildren to your class. And… oh what a wonderful house you have. I felt right at home because where I came from originally (a country called Hawaii) my parents had to hunt for food because that’s all they had. The “now” generation is still hunting and fishing for food because it is too expensive to buy it. We have turtle shells (from before they became illegal) and wild boar tusks, and deer heads on our walls (just like yours) in our present house. Your class is taught in very comfortable surroundings. Please continue. Aloha,

From Bob Ruff: Dear Skip, I took your log house building seminar on the weekend of 3-6-99. I enjoyed the class, learned a lot, and got a deeper respect for humanity. It’s nice to know that there are people out there who care so much for their fellow man such as yourself. Thanks again. I enjoyed meeting you.

From Charlie Ruff: Dear Skip, I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed taking your log house building course on the weekend of March 6. Thank you for teaching the course in a very informative and professional manner. I will most definitely refer my friends and family to you. Thanks again,

From Paul Dillon: Skip, I want to thank you for holding the seminar on log house building this last weekend. I enjoyed the time spent with you in your home along with the hospitality that has been extended to me and my wife. We really were impressed with the vast collection of antique that you have collected over the years, including the collection of weapons that you display. The stories that you told of various items collected and their history was interesting and in my opinion add to the aesthetics of being inside a log home. The addition of background experience resulting in your collection of animals taken in times of need (survival) in the wilds of Alaska when you lived there shows me that your are proud of your heritage and experiences that have made you an individual who wants nothing more than to give away what you have been given. Thanks.

From Rachael Dillon: Dear Skip, Your house is the most beautiful house I think I have ever seen. It is a history and cultural lesson just to be inside of it. It is hard for me to contemplate letting twenty to thirty people into my home, with all of those valuable belongings and then treating them as graciously as you have treated us. I have also now learned how I can be free if I have the guts. This was more than worth my money and time. I look forward so spending every 1st Tuesday at your monthly party. Thank you,

From Jack Hayes: Skip, When I came to this seminar i had reservations that I would ever learn (or have the confidence) to build a log cabin. Just 2 days later, I have the knowledge to complete a dream. Your years of knowledge show with every comment you make. I’m very glad to have taken this class prior to purchasing any log house kit. I would, and will, recommend your seminar to all my friends that are looking to build their own log home… Thank you.

From Charles Mitchell: Skip, Thanks for the education on building a log home. This will help me attain home ownership much faster than I thought possible. You showed a real professional approach mixed with a caring for the individual. You opened your home to all of the classmates and made us all feel at home. Thank you,

From Kurt Lay: Skip, When friend asked me to come along with him to a log home building seminar I was reluctant. After taking the seminar I wonder why I was so hesitant. I just want to show my appreciation on the kindness you gave to all participants. You put my mind at ease. Thank you for all your years of knowledge. Thanks,

From Michael Voegtlin: Dear Skip, I just completed your Log Home Seminar offered through North Seattle Community College. I want to thank you for a very practical and useful course. I especially appreciate the historical perspective you presented on how the early American pioneers constructed their houses as they moved west. This is just something you can’t learn from a textbook, and it helps us understand our heritage. I felt very comfortable in your beautiful log home, with all the rare antiques. It creates the right ambiance for the course. Thanks again,

From Kirk Madary: To Skip, I would like to thank you for your generous hospitality and the trust that you have shown in your students. Especially with your home filled with museum-like artifacts… Thanks for the good teachings, and I hope in the near future I can apply these great techniques to accomplish my goal, to build a log home for my family. Thanks,

From Sean Makela: Hi Skip, I wanted to thank you again for a wonderful, educational weekend at your place. I was truly surprised at how easy the principles of building a log house really are. Your seminar to say the least is very inspiring and I can hardly wait to try your techniques. Furthermore, I wanted to compliment you on the beautiful surroundings in which you instructed us. Your home is one of the most amazing visions I have ever seen. I have never seen such a large, uniquely decorated house before. The inside of your home is very comfortable and welcoming. All the antiques you have collected over the years are amazing. I felt as if I were in a museum. I appreciate the fact you have preserved all these items to share with future generations so they may better understand past cultures. It was a pleasure to make your acquaintance and I look forward to being graced by your presence again someday. Sincerely,

From Patricia McGraw and Ron Meier: Dear Skip, I have read the pages and pages of thank you letters to you from your past students on your internet site. But I want to think of a way to say “thank you” in a very inventive and stand-out way. All that I can come up with is Thank You. But this isn’t the polite or proper kind of thank you, it is a real THANK YOU. I still find it hard to believe that we were lucky enough to find a real human out there who is not motivated by money but by his convictions and dedication to helping others achieve their freedom. I realize that we have a long road ahead of us and lots and lots of work to do but I thank you for giving us the tools we need to succeed. Of the two of us I am the optimistic one and am always willing to try – knowing that things will always work out. Ron is always more pessimistic. When we drove away from the seminar on Sunday night, Ron said “I can do this.” That is quite an achievement on your part. Our sons looked at him in disbelief when he told them the same thing. I am just sad that your seminar is over. Every minute was so interesting… I only wish we lived closer to be part of the monthly meetings. We do plan to bring our scale model for constructive criticism. We are going to flip for it, because we both want to make the trip. I want my two boys and some of my dear friends to make the trip. I really won’t rest until they do. Also, I have a brother in law that I really want to meet you. The two of you are as close in looks, mannerisms and ideology than any two human beings ever. He is a builder. If he ever shows up at your door you will not believe it. It would be wild. I will send you a picture sometime, but a picture wouldn’t do it justice because your manner of speaking and moving and everything is so similar ! Thanks so very much. We will always appreciate getting to meet you and being able to learn so much from you. Your friend, PS – I have put away all the log house books that I previously read over and over again only ending up more confused. Maybe we’ll use them to light our first fire when our log home is finished.

From Mei-mei Bong: Hello there, Skip ! Just wanted to drop you a line to thank you tremendously for all the information you shared at the seminar this past weekend. You are a remarkable man, with endless information and a heart of gold for sharing with those of us that share the interest. I look forward to keeping in touch and working on some plans. Have a good tip to Southeast Asia.

From Bradley Smith: I attended the log house class this past weekend and I want to let you know that it was the best and most interesting class that I have taken in the past 10 years. My wife wants to come to the next class and that is why I am writing. When will the next class be? If you could let me know, I would appreciate it. Thanks,

From Paul Landendorf: Skip, I had to write right away and thank you for your hospitality and all you taught me this past weekend at the seminar. What I appreciate the most is your dedication to serving others and helping them break free of the shackles of 30 year mortgages and such. No doubt, if we had more people like you in this world it would be a better place. I was very impressed with your teaching techniques – how you really made things easy to understand and never balked at a question or lost your patience (I would have). I also appreciated the information you shared on the role of the government and politics as it effects our freedom to build a log house, etc. Thanks Skip, and keep up the good work.

From Joseph Dunaravich: Skip, I have just finished your course on log house building and the course was very informative and took all the mystery out of building a log house. Your instruction is very comprehensive. Having all the real things there to demonstrate and look at reinforced my understanding. I thank you for providing me this opportunity for economic freedom.

From Douglas W. Jackson: Mr. Ellsworth, Thank you for the seminar ! I had so many false preconceptions about log homes and log building techniques. I have never encountered an instructor so knowledgeable on their subject matter. I’m sure the University of Washington was sorry to lose you when you stopped teaching there. Your home is fascinating. It should be an art gallery for everyone to enjoy. I will highly recommend this course and feel free to use me as a reference for any purpose. Sincerely,

From Kevin Murch: Skip, I sure enjoyed your class. Your class is one of the best classes I’ve ever had. And I have to compliment you on being one of the best teachers I’ve ever had. Thank you for accepting me and all of the other students into your home and being so patient with all of our stupid questions. I especially enjoyed your antique collection. Your house is a veritable museum of American and Natural History. I can’t imagine how this art would be passed on if it weren’t for you. Keep up the good work.

From Page Tulloch to Skip: Dear Skip, I want to thank you for your extremely fascinating course in log house building ! It far exceeded all of my expectations. I have taken a lot of courses in my life (I’m 48 years old and have a graduate degree) and I have never gained so much knowledge in such a short time span. Having my own affordable home is a major goal for me. I never dreamt that I could build my house all by myself. You have given me the opportunity of a lifetime – and something I will never forget. You are an excellent teacher and I appreciated your very thoughtful presentations. I also appreciate your making me feel comfortable in your home where the class was held. It really added to the experience to see your masterfully built home. Once again, many thanks for your terrific class. I’ll let you know when I start on my home. Yours sincerely

From Page Tulloch to the Director of Continuing Education at Shoreline Community College: Dear Mr. Reyes, I recently completed the log cabin building course (Catalog Course #6631) offered by the Shoreline Community College. I am writing to let you know what an absolutely wonderful class this was. Not only did I find the instructor, Skip Ellsworth Jr., to be a master of his craft but also an extremely capable and affable educator. His presentations were very clear and understandable as he patiently guided us through the course. He also related a number of personal experiences from his career as a log house builder that I found to be invaluable. Additionally, Mr. Ellsworth held the class in his expertly constructed log home. I was able to gain considerable insight and understanding about the construction process from seeing such a magnificent structure firsthand. In summary, this course has far exceeded my expectations. I am now planning to build my own log cabin. Something I never would have dreampt possible were it not for Mr. Ellsworth and this exceptional course offered through the continuing education department. Sincerely yours,

From Tom Battisti: Skip, Thanks so much for the class. I not only learned how to set my family free form the tyranny of a 30 year mortgage, but I feel that I have made friends with an aware, independent minded and generous human being. I appreciate what you are doing with the intelligence you were endowed with – and not the least of all your common sense and humor.

From Jason Mauldin: Hi Skip, Becky and I wanted to take a moment to let you know how much we enjoyed the log home building seminar last week. We have already shared with friends and family members that we believe you are probably the most gifted and knowledgeable teacher that we will ever meet. Your seminar covers all aspects of the log home building process and yet it is simple and to the point. We particularly liked that you included helpful insights on dealing with local government codes and inspectors. I like knowing that the house we are building will be constructed to higher standards than they will expect. We really appreciate that you make yourself available to answer questions… Construction of our model begins tomorrow… Anyway, thanks again for the invaluable information. Our lives have taken a significant turn toward a life that is free from the bondage of debt. We intend to use that freedom to deal with the world from a position of strength.

From David Acuna, M.D.: Skip, I just want to thank you for your log building seminar. It has truly been a life changing experience. It is great to learn that with a little time and elbow grease one can still make a home that is not only beautiful but also very valuable. You have definitely shown me the “way.” Your home is gorgeous ! Thank you for preserving some of our world’s culture (as well as our native American culture) and creating a “museum” that so many can enjoy… If you ever get to Port Townsend, please look me up. I could never repay you for all that you have taught me, but I could start by serving you dinner. Please accept the enclosed gift as a token of our friendship. Sincerely,

From Marc Schillinger: To whom it may concern: I attended the Log Home Building Seminar taught by Mr. Skip Ellsworth. By the end of the first day I feel that I have received everything that I came for. And, we have a whole day left … My wife attended the January seminar and she insisted that I also attend so that we can speak the same language as we begin building our first log home when I return to my home state of Michigan. I am very impressed with the valuable knowledge gained here at this one-of-a-kind seminar. It is rare that an individual who becomes successful to the point that they are compelled to “help” others. Skip is that kind of a person, and we are forever grateful… I recommend Skip and the seminar to anyone who is truly interested in gaining financial independence and freedom from the infamous 30-year mortgage. Skip’s contribution is truly valuable and generous to anyone who is willing to listen and learn. Sincerely,

From Rich Dixon-Infred, J.D., M.S., M.B.A.: Skip, Just a note of thanks for the log home building seminar. I’m excited about getting started building a log home. I have taken many classes in various fields over the years. This is one of the best, and useful ever. I also appreciate the support that you have offered to all of your students as we begin building houses. Here are a couple of things you should know: 1.) Your home and collections are magnificent. I could spend a year just learning about all of the things that have been important in your life. It is easy to understand why you have been featured in so many publications and are a well known expert in the field of log home building. 2.) Your website was one of the most thorough sites that I have ever visited. After reading it I was well prepared for the class and had a vast understanding of your background. Thank you for that. I look forward to working with you in the future. Thanks again for an exciting weekend. Sincerely,

From Rocky Hill: Dear Skip, Thank you for a valuable life-changing seminar. It was everything I expected and more ! Special thanks for the way you handled the diverse abilities and interests of your students… Nice work !

From Bryce Poulson: Hi Skip ! The class was awesome… Thanks for your fellowship and for helping spread the word…

From Leland D. Fox; “I enjoyed the class presented by Skip Ellsworth, not only because he taught me how to build a log house, but also as a renewal of my appreciation for the remaining freedom in America. I now have a workable plan to regain some of my freedoms that were lost to me due to the framework of the “normal” employment/mortgage syndrome. I expect to build my own log home soon — and not suffer from the normal thirty year mortgage.”

From Rod Campbell; “I just completed a two day course in log home building with Skip Ellsworth. Although I’m a carpenter by trade, I soon found out that I had accumulated a lot of misinformation about log construction. The techniques that Skip teaches showed me how easy and practical it is to build a log home. I’m excited, and I can’t wait to get started.”

From Rob Schippers; “Skip refers to himself as an eccentric jokingly, and that was my first thought when I was first introduced to him. However, as the class progressed I found out that this guy really has his shit together. I came to this class with my brother to learn how to build a log home. Our initial intent was to build a kit log home but my mind was quickly changed when I saw the ease, the cost, and the strength of a REAL log home – built using the Skip Ellsworth methods. I know that I will have no problems whatsoever building a log home. It is so simple. To me that class was clear and all the information needed to build a log home was made available. I can’t wait to build my first log home.”

From Lisa Frogel; Dear Skip, I found this poem in a book of poetry that was published in 1883. I thought of you immediately as I was reading it.

There are four things a man must do

If he is to keep his record true

To think without confusion, clearly

To love his fellow man, sincerely

To act from honest motives purely

To trust in God and Heaven securely

From Martin Schippers; “Log homes help me feel closer and more in tune with nature and the world around me. For me, this type of feeling can not be achieved in a standard frame home because of its synthetic properties. I feel privileged to have taken this course from Skip. He brings a certain philosophical dignity to the simplicity of log home construction.”

From Mark and Pat Fullerton; “Skip’s course was thorough and yet he kept to the basics. He showed us how relatively straight forward and simple all the principles of log house construction are. We feel that we are prepared to tackle this project on our own. It makes the prospects of owning our own log home much more realistic and exciting. Especially, when we know how much money we can save by doing it this way. Thanks, Skip !!”

From Mary Farley; “Thank you for the wonderful class on log house building we attended this past weekend. ‘We’ve wanted to take your class for years, and it exceeded all of our expectations. I came away really understanding the techniques and reasons for doing things. Thanks, Skip for offering this class. We now know that it is possible to make our dream of owning our own log home a reality in the near future.”

From David Davidson; “Skip, I thought of you recently when I read this famous quote from Confucius: “The strength of a nation is derived from the integrity of its homes.”

Skip, When I read the following paragraph I thought of you, because it seems to me that it agrees with your philosophy. It is from John D. Mac Donald’s book called, A DEADLY SHADE OF GOLD.

“We are doing something wrong. We haven’t figured out what it is yet — but somehow we have turned all these bIg glossy universities into places where the thinking young ones, the mavericks, the ones we need the most, cannot endure. The campuses are in the hands of the unaware, the incurably unconscious second class kids with second class minds — that have the second class goal of reasonable competence, reasonable security, and reasonable happiness. Perhaps this is the proper way to insure that we will continue to live in a second class world. There is no room for mavericks. All the mavericks ever do anyway is make the sane, normal industrious people fee uncomfortable. They ask the wrong questions. Such as – what is the meaning of all this. So weed them out. They are cultural mistakes. Leave the world to the followers… racing like lemmings toward the warm sea of the Totally Adjusted Community.”

From Bill Gillespie; “I signed up for this class with the idea of someday building a log home to retire in. However, after learning about the economics of log homes, as well as seeing Skip’s comfortable home, I plan on building a log home as soon as possible rather than waiting until retirement.”

From Howard Hopkins; “Before I took your two day class on log home building I new nothing and had not idea of how to get started. After the two day class I have every confidence that I could not only build one, but would be able to do it right the first time. I had no idea I would learn so much. Well done.”

From Harry Hopkins; “These two days of instruction and help from Skip Ellsworth have been very important to me. Without this class I would have had very little hope of ever having a home for my wife and myself. It can be done now.”

From V. Michael Rossi; “I just completed Skip Ellsworth’s log home building seminar. It was most helpful in sorting out a great deal of mis-information that I had received from log home “kit” manufacturers and from reading a number of books on the subject. As a result of what I have learned from Skip, I am now ready to proceed in building a log home.”

From Rob Zinns; “Skip, My partner John Lind and I are cataloging our newly acquired knowledge you dropped on us this last weekend. Right now we feel we are on fire with a renewed sense of hope, drive and determination. Thanks for the spark! We also thank you for sharing some of your political views with us, we also align with these same values, feeling we are the pivotal generation, the one’s that will truly make a difference in what will become of our children…We now feel we have the tools, and have joined a like-minded alliance to certainly make that difference. We again salute you for your courage and fortitude pertaining to these matters. The divine spirit in me, recognizes and respects the divine spirit in you, Sincerely,”

From Susan Shwartz; “When you first wrote to me about your seminar, you signed the note, “Your friend, Skip.” When I read it I didn’t really know what to think about it, because I had not yet met you. Now that I have taken your class, I know exactly what you meant. You are truly a friend to all of mankind. I am proud to call you “friend” in return.”

From Sharon Royce; “Margaret Mead once said, ‘Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world: Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.’ Her wise observation speaks directly to what you are doing in your seminars. You are changing the world, Skip. Keep up the good work, and let me know if I can help you in any way.”

From Daniel Shaw; “I want to keep in touch and found this a good opportunity. I hope you are doing well. As you may recall, my wife and I have an opportunity to build a home for someone in exchange for some land in King County… so I ask you, do you have an accounting of expenses for an “average” home as a basis for comparison ? Please forward this information as quickly as possible, as we are anxious to get started. PS. Also, let me say that I truly admire your values of using wealth to improve the quality of life for everyone, and using your wisdom and wit to defend our constitutional rights, especially the right to security of ourselves and homes – and protection from unwarranted search and seizure.”

From Ralf Townsley — via e-mail; Skip , just dropping a line to you after finding the web-site on the net. I am a former student of yours from a long time ago. Its good to see you are the same. I know this because your persona shows up on these pages in the web-site. Keep up the good work . If the world didn’t have people like you around (rebel would be a good term) then the powers that be would have taken over a long time ago. This is what makes America great! Thanks,

From Dan Barker, Building Inspector, Cassia County, Burley, Idaho; I attended Skip Ellsworth’s seminar on building log homes the past two days. I would recommend the course to anyone who is interested in, or serious about, building a TRUE log house either for themselves or others. The course was great. I was very impressed with how down to earth and simple the process really is. I soon came to know that my previous concept of a log house was wrong. Had I not attended, I just might have built a home made of dowels. I am now very serious about building a REAL log home as taught by Skip. Thank you,

From Peter Koza; Skip, Great seminar !! Thanks for putting it on. My wife and her friend attended the last seminar. She came back very excited and insisted that I go for this one. Now I’m fired up. We can do this !! The information presented was clear, insightful, and very pragmatic. The multiple demonstrations and examples on the site explained details better than pictures and text. Please keep up the good work !! I hope to attend the meetings of the Association. We will have other friends attending seminars if you will give them. Thanks,

From Bill and Charlotte McDowell; Hi Skip, It is so great to hear from you. I don’t know if you remember, but we saw you briefly at a log home show in Tacoma a year or so ago. We owe so much to you and your teachings. It’s an understatement to say it was a life-changing event for us. We continue to love living in our gorgeous log home. We have built two log homes so far. We have our home currently listed with Windermere and are anxious to start the third. Bill is building lots of beautiful log furniture while we wait to sell. I have enclosed our web site. We seldom get to Monroe these days, but we certainly appreciate the invitation. I still remember that most delicious coffee. If you know of anyone ready to move into a beautiful 2,000 square foot log home, give us a call or if you know of anyone that needs log furniture we always appreciate the referrals. We continue to enjoy the journey. Thanks again for giving us the courage to jump out of the rat race and live our dream!!

From Ed and Bev Barksdale; We found Skip’s seminar to be very informative. Up until this time it has never occurred to us that we would be able to build our log home ourselves. The basic skills and techniques Skip taught us this week-end will let us achieve our dream home in a more cost effective way. We would like to see the monthly Tuesday meetings continue for additional support and the ability to network with others in our pursuit of log home building. Thanks for your hospitality Skip and Elvie. It’s been a fun week-end.

From Paul M. Earley; I found out about Skip Ellsworth and his log home seminar via the Internet. I printed out and read all 65 pages of letters like this. I signed up for the seminar almost immediately, even though I couldn’t see how one could learn how to build a log structure in just 22 hours. I figured all these folks were on a “high” from having just finished the class. Now I understand. Log homes “from scratch” are simple to build. I agree with the others. With all of Skip’s labor-saving tricks and tips, I am totally convinced that I am now able to build my first home.

From Brodie Ryan; A few words about the log home building seminar. I believe that the education offered at this seminar has more potential to help the average individual achieve socio-economic freedom than any other vehicle I have ever seen — including a formal education. Skip Ellsworth is not only an incredible craftsman, but an equally gifted teacher of his well substantiated building methods, and way of life. Take the time to learn log home building correctly and it will be a good experience. Thanks again Skip. You are helping many people like myself realize there are viable options to a 30 year mortgage. Your friend,

From Richard and Gloria Christiansen; This is the best return on an investment I have ever dreamed of. My wife and I enjoyed your seminar, Skip, as did all the other students. We can not say enough about this seminar. We wish we had obtained this knowledge 30 years ago. We have owned many homes, but now our dream home will become a reality. Thank you, Skip.

From Tom and Teri Stephen; My wife and I have learned more about how to change our lives in this course than any other class in our lives. Skip has instructed us in the fine art of building a log home, which will give our family the freedom to take control of the future. We are deeply indebted to him for that, and we wish to thank him.

From Andrea M. James; To whom it may concern, My husband and I recently took the log home building seminar taught by Skip Ellsworth. We traveled from Oklahoma to take this course, during the most inconvenient time in our lives. However we came out of the course with a world of information about building log homes. We are both very anxious to get home and practice using the techniques taught by Skip. I am currently working on my master’s degree in education and have been in the teaching field for six years. Skip is the best teacher that I have ever had the privilege of learning from. This course offers so much information that I would recommend to many of my friends and relatives form back home to attend if given the opportunity. Thank you for continuing to provide this excellent educational experience. Sincerely,

From Jennifer O’Neil; The log home construction class taught by Skip Ellsworth was very interesting and informative. The two day class consisted of all the information needed to build a log home no matter what your background. I would definitely take the class again, and I would recommend it to other people interested (even just slightly) in building a log home.

From G.P. Rengler; Just a short note about your seminar my grandson and I attended this past weekend. We both had a great time… The trouble now is, my grandson, Travis, wants to go out and build one today. Not tomorrow. Today — like right now. I feel the same way, but I have to act sort of cool so as not to appear too eager. He started drawing plans as soon as we got home. Thank you for the learning experience.

From Eric Reinhardt; I’m torn between telling everyone I know or just my closest friends. I feel if everyone knows about this seminar I would lose the advantage I have now.

From Locke Ballard; To whom it may concern, Wow !! I’ve been working with wood for over 20 years and I learned things I never know about wood at this seminar. Skip teaches with humor and wisdom. His techniques are the simplest and strongest I’ve ever seen. I am very lucky to have been able to attend.

From Foslin P. Newman; I attended Skip’s class and found it to be very informative. I intend to build a log house with what I have learned. I would recommend this class to all my friends and hope you will continue to offer this class in the future. Sincerely,

From George Tipping; In Skip Ellsworth’s 2 day seminar he opened a world of possibilities. Concise and informative. Fantastic. Taught by a true professional from A to Z. I learned everything about building log homes.

From Doug Sweeney; I’ve been a framer (carpenter) for 3 years. In 22 hours, in Skip Ellsworth’s log home building seminar, I learned an equal amount about building – from the foundation through the complete roof. I highly recommend taking the seminar to anyone seriously interested in building quality log homes. Sincerely,

From Ken Smith; I came to Skip’s class expecting to learn a lot about log home building. I wasn’t disappointed. Skip is a very effective teacher which made it easy to follow the techniques and secret tricks of the trade. I would recommend the class to anyone interested in log home building and becoming economically independent. Well worth the investment. Thanks,

From Russ Overfield; Skip’s log house building school was informative, fun, and very educational. Skip was very helpful with regard to answering questions and made the seminar a pleasant and educational experience. I learned what I needed to know to build the house of my choice. I feel that Skip’s log house building seminar fills a very definite need in the industry to help his students choose the type of construction they want for their house and gives them the necessary knowledge to build their home.

From Tom Clute; I greatly appreciate Skip’s log building weekend course. I am eager to stay in touch and involved and work toward building one in the next 1 to 3 years. Skip’s instruction is top-rate. I would come again in a heartbeat.

From Bianca Kamnitzer; Skip Ellsworth’s log home building seminar is motivational, informative and entertaining. Skip teaches all the necessary information one needs to build their own log home correctly. Along with this you learn how to obtain permits and the best tools and tricks to get the job done safely and quickly. I have wanted to learn this trade for a very long time, not just to build my own home, but to market my skills and build homes for others. I was happy to discover that Skip is so adamant about warning us about the problems with log house “kit” builders and how to avoid getting screwed. Living self-sufficiently and without government interference is the only way to go. Skip for President. Thanks,

From Rachelle Mokofsky; Hello Skip, This weekend was awesome !! Thank you very much !! I have a couple of friends who are a little pissed off with me that I did not inform them of your seminar. One friend of mine has his land and has been fighting for permits, etc. for the last few years. He would love to take your seminar. When is your next one ? I know you’re going back to Asia soon. Thanks for the abundance of knowledge.

From Dana D. Rohrbaugh; This course was amazing !! We covered an enormous amount of material in two days, and Skip made it so we understood each concept and technique. This is an important course. You don’t want to miss it. Skip knows it all from years of experience AND he is an excellent teacher. Plus, he and Elvie (and their son, Chip) are truly nice people. You must take this course.

From Robert J. Brown; This log home building seminar has been the most informative experience I have ever had. I will recommend it to anyone who is interested in building a log home.

From Susan Castillo; Informative seminar, and entertaining. Skip has a wealth of information and gives it in an easy, understandable manner.

From Kathy K.; It will take me a while to absorb the awesome experience of spending the weekend at your home, but I am working on it. You are such a gifted man and teacher, and I want you to know how much I appreciate your willingness to share your gifts with others. I truly hope that you will consider writing that autobiography. A life like you have had practically demands immortalization on paper. Please think about it.

From David E. James; I attended the seminar in the last weekend of October. Skip Ellsworth is a great teacher and an excellent communicator. This seminar convinced me that I can actually have a solid, long lasting, comfortable and beautiful log home without being in debt for the rest of my life – which is thrilling to me. I highly recommend this seminar to anyone who is considering building or buying a home.

From Lynn Barker; After attending the log home seminar I came away with valuable skills to help me in meeting the needs in my work and preserving the skills in woodworking that is an important part of our history. These skills are necessary to build the traditional original style log homes. This type of class should be continued to help preserve our heritage… Sincerely,

Not signed; I’ve built three log homes prior to taking Skip’s class. I found his class to be right on, and full of excellent information. I learned many new things in this class, and from now on I will build log homes correctly using Skip’s methods. I obtained a vast amount of knowledge in this class – with an emphasis on good principles of building. I wish I had taken Skip’s class prior to building my other log homes. I could have saved vast sums of money, and built better homes. Many thanks,

From Bruce Dumas; Skip Ellsworth packs a powerful course into two days. I found it to be extremely interesting and informative. It is obvious that Skip teaches a class that is a must for anyone considering building a log structure. I would highly recommend this course and hope he can continue teaching it in the future.

From Michael J. Blake; To whom it may concern, I signed up for this class for fun. I didn’t think I would actually be able to build a log cabin. I just came to learn about them. Well, with Skip’s instruction I am now very confident that I can build my own log home. Skip is the man. I appreciate him sharing his experiences.

From Pat Thier; Skip Ellsworth’s class on log home building was a Godsend. For someone like myself, who has dreamed of log homes since childhood, Skip has covered everything there is to know. For the private home builder or the entrepreneur, this class is a must. If you love the log home way of life, you’ll love Skip Ellsworth and the class.

From Jon Chrysler; I found skip’s log home seminar to be really informative. I had been wondering what style log home to build and now I know – and I will be able to build it correctly.

From Dale Blevin; Dear Elvie, Skip, and Chip, Thank you so much for a wonderful experience. You are all very gracious hosts. I really felt welcome in your home. I hope I will get the opportunity to see you again sometime down the road. Thanks to Skip for being such a patient and thoughtful teacher. Your friend,

From Ronald Newman;To whom it may concern, I’m 19 years old and still in high school. I heard about Skip’s class from my brother in law so I decided to try the class. It is the best thing I’ve ever spent my money on. I learned a lot. It will help me to get started on my first house and I can even start making money selling log homes. I hope you will continue to offer this class in the future. Thank you,

From Brian Fenske; Skip, Just a note to let you know how much fun and how many “out-of-the-box” ideas you provided me with this weekend. Even if we never build a log house, I will be able to use many of your approaches to life. Thanks again,

From Howard Hemmings; The log home seminar I attended on 31 Oct. and 1 Nov. 1998 was an eye-opening experience. The only problem for me now is maintaining the momentum. It poses many questions in my mind as to whether I want to continue paying $1,100 per month on my current mortgage for the next 25 years. Now I have a viable alternative. The seminar was extremely informative. The instructor was VERY knowledgeable and he uses effective teaching methods – with lectures, overhead projectors, slides, videos, hands on, and prototype models. Wow !!

From Mary Zimmerman; This course that Skip puts on is excellent and very informative. He explains everything very well and many times if needed. He is someone I would love to have as a neighbor and friend. His course is excellent.

From Ross Youngs; I don’t know if you remember our initial conversations. I’m sure you talk to dozens of folks like me throughout the day, but I mentioned that before we took your class Val wasn’t completely convinced that it would be a good idea for us to build our own log home. She even went so far as to say, “If we build it, it will look like shit.” I’ve gotta tell ya, after the first half day, she was swayed. She listened to what you said, and to the questions being asked, and she became a “believer.” And, probably best of all, she saw the log structures on your property. She was really impressed. Thanks for just existing, and just for being around to impart to us your knowledge on log home building, and on life. Oh, I have a couple of friends who are interested in taking the seminar. Do you know yet if you’re going to have one next month ?

From Lisa Schramm; I just completed Skip Ellsworth’s seminar on building log homes. I have gained a new sense of freedom knowing that I can accomplish the building of a log home, mortgage free, with the simple techniques I have learned. I would, and already have, recommended this seminar to my friends who are looking for a way to “own” (not owe the bank) a home. When I first entered Skip’s home, it reaffirmed my desire to have a home made of logs.

From Bob Bosarge; After taking this class I can build my log home the right way. I will use one of the systems I learned from Skip. Skip teaches the class in a way that is very easy to understand.

From Ric Jacobs; An amazing amount of information taught in an easy to understand format. Any and all questions were answered. After two days, the house you have dreamed of building becomes an attainable goal.

From J. R. Beeman; A real informative class with information that you can’t get out of any book – with a lot of neat closely guarded secrets.

From John Jaybush; This workshop is solid stuff. The log home seminar has given me the information and confidence to begin planning a log home of the non-imaginary sort. Skills for a lifetime and a LOT of fun (it’s not something like that – it’s exactly like that !!).

From Becky Carlson; Thank you for this course. I have studied log homes, followed the market for approximately four years and decided on what model I was going to build. Although aesthetically pleasing, it definitely would have been the worst thing I could have done, as I would have made many mistakes. You have armed me with knowledge, and now I know I can do it easily. I think everyone looking for a way out of the 30 year mortgage game should attend your class. Even professionals, especially young ones who are in debt. Breaking free is the dream. Now it’s time to spread the word and help people get closer to the dream. I’ll certainly spread the word.

From John Lind and Rob Zinns; Skip, My partner John Lind and I are cataloging our newly acquired knowledge you dropped on us this last weekend. Right now we are on fire with a renewed sense of hope, drive and determination. Thanks for the spark! We also thank you for sharing some of your political views with us. We also align with these same values, feeling WE are the pivotal generation, the one’s that will truly make a difference in what will become of our children. We now feel we have the tools, and have joined a like-minded alliance to certainly make that difference. We again salute you for your courage and fortitude pertaining to these matters. The divine spirit in me recognizes and respects the divine spirit in you. Sincerely, Namaste’ Rob Zinns

From Eric Reinhardt; Dear Skip, I was fortunate enough to attend your freedom gathering class on October 24 and 25 of this year. Now that my skepticism is gone I would like to get my wife to the next available class. I hope it’s not too late before you depart to the islands. Please send any info about future classes.

From Bill and Charlotte McDowell; Skip, we took your class in October of 1992, and we had a chance meeting at this year’s Log Home Show in Tacoma. This will be a quick update on what we’ve been doing. Here is a hot-link for the web page on the log home we finished in 1995 and are currently living in <___>. Then, to keep us busy between houses, we have developed a log furniture business and here is the hyper-link for that <___>. Have a nice day, and we hope to visit with you soon.

From Brian Fenske; Skip, Just a note to let you know how much fun and how many “out-of-the-box” ideas you provided me with this weekend. Even if I never build a log house, I will be able to use many of your approaches to life. Thanks again,

From Jon Chrysler; Hi Skip, This is my first e-mail. I can’t think of a better person to try it on. Now you get to learn how to send a fax… I left you a phone message, but don’t know which one will get to you first. I really enjoyed the class this weekend. I found it so useful. I would like to pay the tuition for my brother-in-law and nephew from Lima, Montana. I think I’ve even convinced my wife to take the class. Can I still register three people ? How do you want me to pay ? The names are Locke Ballard, Fed Ballard and Verda Chrysler. If there are less than three spaces available, please register as many as possible in this order and let me know who the lucky ones are. Thanks Skip,

From Wendy Rawls; Dear Skip, Thanks you for offering your wonderful seminar. Jack’s greatest hesitation was that it wold be largely a waste of time since he is so familiar with logs (as a horse-logger). However, they both found it to be a very worthwhile and informational weekend. Both are now convinced that they can efficiently build a log home from your instructions and I am seeing a degree of enthusiasm and confidence that has not been there before. We are going to begin our model soon and hope, at some point to be able to attend one of your monthly meetings (the ferries are somewhat problematic in accomplishing this). The guys enjoyed your hospitality and making your acquaintance and I hope to be able to meet you and see your home. Please let us know when the meetings will be held. You are welcome to come out to the islands and visit us as well. I’m sure Jack would be happy to show you his horse logging operation. Again, thank you for putting together a very educational and worthwhile seminar. Sincerely,

From Marc Millsap; Skip, I just wanted to say think you for the weekend. It was excellent both in educational and entertainment value. I had a great time and did not want the weekend to end. I enjoyed meeting you, Elvie, and Chip. I would wholeheartedly recommend your seminar to anyone. I especially enjoyed and agreed with your political and governmental commentary weaved throughout the weekend. Marc Snodgrass and I would like to come back in January and possibly bring our wives and my nephew. The wives and my nephew would attend the seminar, and marc and I would like to find a work party to help out with. We’d also like to stay out west for the monthly Association meeting if possible. Could you please let us know if there are any work parties the weekend before the monthly meeting ? Skip, thinks for your input on these matters. Your friend,

From Bob Mangino; Skip, Thanks for a super educational experience. I have a busy six months ahead of me but that will give me time to accumulate tools and materials and I hope to start looking for land and logs around the end of summer. Thanks again, and I hope to see you at the meetings.

From Sherry Renshaw; Subject: Your children. I know you didn’t want anyone except friends and former students to look at the family photos. Curiosity overcame. I was looking for information on log homes, planning to build one. Your family is great. Ellsworth is really cute. They are all so smart. How ever did you do it ? I just had to tell you what a wonderful family I think you have… From a fan of your work,

From Mariana Sintay; Dear Skip, Thanks so much for the class last weekend. You have no idea how much it means to me to see a realistic way out of this life style I’m into. Being self-sufficient has been my dream since I was 16. Please confirm that there’ll be a meeting on November 3.

From Chris and Lisa; Hi Skip! Its good to hear from you. Yes the shop is still in the same spot, & we still put ink on paper. If you are ever in the area please stop and see us, also the offer still stands if there is anything our shop can do to help the log home builders association just ask! I am sad to say that we have both missed the last two meetings but we still have the passion to build and live in our own log home. We will not miss the next one, there is a special feeling about your home and surroundings that is as important as the information I gain there. Thanks for everything,

From Dale and Rene Anacker (they start out teasing Skip about the way he talks); Dear Skip, Thanks for the class. “Dig this” it was really an education “man.” “Check this out, are you ready for this ?” “This is gonna take about five seconds of total concentration” – we have never learned so much, so fast, and walked away so enlightened. Thanks again. Log Home Freaks Forever, Dale and Rene”

From Jana: “Dear Skip, I really enjoyed your class and can’t wait to build my first log cabin in a year or two. I wrote the College and told them it was wonderful. See you at the meeting,”

From Art Whittle; “Dear Skip, Thanks a lot for the great week end I had learning to build log houses. I sure will have other people wanting to attend also. Also, could you look for the plans to your house for me. I just love it. Sincerely,”

From Jim Ruff; “Hello Skip, Just writing to say how much I enjoyed your class this last weekend… Hopefully, you will have a class in May. I would like for my wife, a friend and myself to take your class again. Hope to be seeing you again soon.”

From Howard Nichols; “As a child I was interested in building; playing with blocks, legos, and erector sets was fun. I was learning while I played; trial and error, experimentation, the scientific method, etc. I was teaching myself how to think. Then I went to public school – where I was taught how to cheat, to lie, to steal. It was corrupting, dehumanizing, and the end of my innocence. I was devastated. I “learned” to forget how to think for myself. Trying to shake off these demons, I struggled onward. In my own way, in spite of government intervention, I began to seek the truth. In the world of work I bounced around from job to job, learning some various and sundry skills. Some of these situations involved building. Although at times I was happy in my personal life, I was rarely fulfilled in my work. I could not decided what to do with my life. Fortunately, the strength and support of family and friends kept me going. Then I went to Skip’s class. There I found an honest and caring man – eager to teach others not just how to build log houses, but how to think for themselves as well. His vision and inspiration will help motivate me to achieve my dream of building my own log house. It is obvious that success in this endeavor will lead to financial independence. Fulfilling these positive personal goals is a rewarding, liberating, empowering process. Thank you for giving of yourself, and helping me and so many others realize our freedom.”

From Jim Frielink and Karen Anderson; “Hope this will find all of your log house endeavors and live in general going very well. Karen and I are busy enjoying our first year in the beautiful log house you inspired us to build. The achievement is truly a dream come true for us. I’m writing, first of all, to let you know that we are planning a part to celebrate our new home. It’s set for Sunday July 26th. It will start whenever anyone shows up and last until everyone decides it’s over. There will be plenty to eat and drink. We home you can make it. You’d definitely be the guest of honor. Thanks again, Skip. I’ll look forward to seeing you either up there or down here… or both !!”

From Jim Frielink and Karen Anderson; “I’m sorry you couldn’t make it to the housewarming party. Anyway, please feel free to come down and visit us anytime. A guest room is ready for you. We have really enjoyed living here this past year, and your class, your attitude, and your support had a LOT to do with our success. We thank you.”

From Nate and JoAnne Johnston; “We both enjoyed your class more than we could ever express in words. We felt it was a great privilege to be here. Your method of teaching is REAL and easy for everyone to understand. It opens many doors to future thinking. I don’t know how you packed so much information into this short period of time, but that is why you have the skill of teaching. We learned things we never even imagined before. Even with no construction background we came away with enough knowledge to build our own log home. You are a very patient teacher. Your secret tricks are great, and very valuable. Thanks so much for sharing yourself.”

From Charlotte Fox and Raoul Klein (1961 Village de Vernmiege, 57007 Suisse); “We hope your innovative projects have continued to expand and snowball since we took your class. We returned to Switzerland and have purchased land to build on, a beautiful panoramic spot in the Alps. We will be building next summer. I am enclosing a photo of this village (our land is marked under the pinhole). There are many wood structures of interest, decidedly an opportunity for cultural exchange. My husband and I are surviving as 1) an artist and art restorer 2) dancer/teacher. We will send pictures of our house when it is finished. We hope you can come for a visit. Cheers to you and my native area.”

From Larry Kaler; “The role you play in people’s lives can be likened to the great minds of history (Plato, Einstein, etc.). Why ? Because you bring to attention a simple and straightforward philosophy – that can create a foundation that if acted upon can direct people’s lives away from the blind mainframe of society and into themselves where they can find freedom and inner peace. This may sound strange coming from someone in my position, if it’s real. The information that you share can facilitate the opening of doors for people. Individuals such as yourself are contributing to the greatest of all things – and that is “mankind.” You teach a philosophy of freedom – by teaching people how to build “mortgage free” log homes. The geniuses in life are those that can find a way through the most complex material and present it in its simplest form. Your genius is in your simple approach to building log homes, and in your ability to teach this clearly. It is genuine, and it is you, and you play that singular role in the world today. What greater thing can we ask for, if each of us could contribute just one great thing to the betterment of mankind – and you and your excellent class are doing that very thing today.

From Monica ; “Skip Ellsworth’s two day log home building class is the best course I’ve ever had. With no prior building experience I will be able to build my own log home. Not to be overly dramatic or anything, but this course (and what I do with it) will change my life.”

From Jack Shyer; “Skip Ellsworth teaches a course in how to secure freedom. The essence of his being is shared graciously and firmly in this endeavor. He also teaches how to build log houses in the most efficient and the best manner. Free thinking, acting, and speaking are his tools. In his classes, individuality is honored in a spirit of community for creating homes in truth.”

From Kathleen M. Kinder; “I took this class for fun – to learn about something interesting and new. Now I know exactly what kind of a home I want to live in – something I quite frankly hadn’t expected or considered. The experience I had in this class is one of the most valuable, not to mention fun, that I have had in a long, long time. Skip is an inspiration.”

From Ellen Martin; “I am a 39 year old woman with no building experience. Most women my age were brought up thinking that building homes is a man’s job. With the women’s movement, women no longer feel they must stay away from jobs that traditionally were done by men. I am highly motivated to build a log home with my husband. I read a book and saw a video tape on how to build a log house. Both made the process sound very complicated. Also, I had sent away for all the kit home information I could get my hands on. They all claim that their methods are superior to the other companies. Their kits are so expensive. As a result of all my reading, I became very confused regarding which methods are best. Skip’s class cleared up this confusion. I now know what methods we want to use – and I know that we are going to build the house ourselves. I am very confident that we can do a good job. Skip explained everything in such a way that it made sense to me.”

From Paul Martin; “This class has been very worthwhile for me. I plan to build a log house and I read quite a bit of material before attending this class. After reading this material I was left with a lot of doubts, questions, and confusion. Now that I have taken Skip’s class, the whole process makes physical sense to me. Now it is easy to see the errors that pervade most of the log home construction literature as well as the errors that pervade the pre-fab log home construction industry. For the first time since I began thinking about building a log home, I feel confident that I know how to make the right choices and how to go about building a log house that I will be proud and happy to live in. Skip’s class gets the highest rating from me.”

From Anne R. Suruda; “As a recent graduate of Skip’s class I feel greatly encouraged, almost provoked into changing my life. Having had everything so clearly and simply explained, I feel capable and cooperative. The continual reminders of the philosophical implications on personal growth adds a sense of immediacy to achieving economic independence. There is an almost scary feeling of imminent change. I feel I am on a precipice about to take a great leap. The possibilities of how this would effect all aspects of my life are infiltrating all my thoughts. Overall – empowering and urgent.”

From Clare Murphy; “The class was very effective, interesting and full of tips and suggestions. The instructor paced the class so that all members could have questions answered. Videos allowed the class to see the building progress. Emphasis was placed on helping students understand and see the logic of the construction process in order to develop self-confidence and self-sufficiency within the students. The bits of philosophy and “Zen and the art of log house building” effect kept the interest of the class, kept us thinking, kept a perspective, and showed the instructor’s concern for his students.. Thanks.”

From Ed Murphy; “An entertaining, and very effective instructional format. Personal nuances convey a feeling of concern for students. With the outrageous conventional housing costs getting so out of hand, it is refreshing to come to understand an alternative construction method that I believe is a more holistic approach to shelter. I strongly recommend this course.”

From John Ralston; “The essence of sophistication is simplicity. This is a simple, clear course that repels the chaos and difficulty that might otherwise occur when dealing with such an endeavor. Because of this course, I can now afford to own a home. This course was an answer to a prayer — and it will give me my very first home. Yours truly.”

From Michael B. Gross; “I took this seminar because it offered me an alternative method of owning my own home – a quality, long lasting home – and very affordable. The seminar was done so well and so clearly that I feel I can go out immediately and build my own log house. In fact, I am going to do it. Skip’s instruction and open, casual way of instructing, gives confidence. Was it worthwhile (?) – you betcha !!!”

From Don Schultz; “This course has revived in me a strong desire to return to a simpler lifestyle where the pace of day to day living is slower. The log house exemplifies in my mind the principles of freedom and self-reliance which are my wish and dream for all people. Skip has turned what might otherwise be a sterile and cold instructional course into one filled with the spirit of love, adventure and a thirst for life.”

From Joseph Brown; “Just a note to let you know how much I enjoyed your weekend course last weekend. It was truly a worthwhile learning experience, and I am constantly going over my notes to reinforce what you covered. In retrospect, it really was all-encompassing. I find it hard to believe we covered so much material. Thank you for everything and for the really enjoyable weekend. You made the learning a pleasure.”

From George Stapp; “Just wanted to thank you for doing such a good and important job teaching people to be self-sufficient. Thought your last weekend class was one of the most valuable weekends I’ve ever spent and have recommended it to several of my friends.”

From P. Valentine and D. Shelley; “Shelley and I just wanted to say we really enjoyed the class. It was the most enjoyable and informative that either of us have ever attended. Enclosed is a map of how to get to our place up by Mt. Rainier. We hope you get up that way soon. Give a buzz and let us know when you are coming and we’ll provide the juice and food. Also, one our building inspectors has taken your class. He and his wife – a Mr. And Mrs. Conant. We have enjoyed exchanging notes with them…”

From Gene Hoover; “Nineteen years ago I participated in Skip Ellsworth’s log home building class. Over the years I’ve kept the vivid memories of the simple, inexpensive and totally practical methods of construction that Skip teaches. Now that I am married, and have some property, I am taking the class again with my wife. There is no construction method with or without logs that I have come across in the past 19 years that can provide such comprehensive advantages. I would recommend Skip’s class to anyone – beginner or expert.”

From Tom Barley; “This experience has greatly expanded my horizons. I will start building my own log home within two months. The world needs more people with Skip’s knowledge, patience, and love of humanity. It could only lead to a more caring and effective society. I wish Skip and his program all the best. From a happy student. Thanks Skip.”

From Lance Lovick; “I have just finished Skip Ellsworth’s log home building class. He has designed the class so that students of any level of experience can understand and learn all of the techniques necessary to build your own log home. His teaching style, which combines his years of experience, anecdotal stories, and dry humor make the learning easy and enjoyable. I would recommend the course even if you only “suspect” you are interested.”

From Blake Marquette; “I recently attended a log home seminar put on by a log house KIT magazine. They took my money, they advertised their products, and I learned NOTHING. The also told me that I could not learn log home building in a weekend class. I then took Skip’s class with some skepticism, and learned more about building period than in the three years I spend in commercial construction. I took more notes in this two days than I did all through high school. There is NO doubt in my mind that I can now build my own log house. I emphasize my OWN because no banks will own it (or me) for the next 30 years. Thanks to Skip.”

From Jim Southerland; “What did I get out of Skip Ellsworth’s log house building class ? That’s not an easy question to answer, because I haven’t yet had time to totally digest and meditate on such a unique experience. I came here only to learn how to build log houses. However, I left with that knowledge, and a lot more. While being guided through the techniques of log building , Skip also, in an uncanny way stimulated my sense of self sufficiency, purpose for existence, and my identity of self. Skip did this in a positive and humorous way. I not only left the school with all of the log house building knowledge that I need, but also with much, much more than this. Thank you, Skip.”

From Lawrence A. Gielgens; “The two days that I spent at the log home class has been the most informative and enjoyable days I’ve had in a long time. The information I received and the way it was presented were excellent. Skip is definitely the man to learn log home building from He is a real master of the craft. It is wonderful to know that this knowledge is now in my head, and it will always be there when I need it.”

From Kim Ragan; “I have just completed Skip’s class on log house building and I have found it to be a far greater learning experience than I ever expected. It was extreme in detail, and covered every aspect of the building process I will need to build my own log home. I would like to thank Skip for the great teaching ability he has. It really sinks in deep, and will not be forgotten. I strongly recommend his class to any person interested in building a log house. Thanks much.”

From Mitch Ragan; “Skip, this is the best course I have ever taken. It was very informative and interesting at the same time. You have a very unique style of teaching. Twelve hours a day of class is a very long time, but it went very fast because I never lost interest even for a minute. I am going to start planning my log house TODAY and I feel very confident I can do the job. I would highly recommend the course to anyone and plan to have my parents and selected friends take this course. It was GREAT !! My thanks to you.”

From Fred Renfroe; “Skip, this was ONE GREAT EXPERIENCE for me. Totally inspiring, informative, and helpful in every way. You have made me a true believer in the log home way of life. I have spent a great deal of my life wishing to build and live in a log home. I am now going to take the next step — and by golly I’m going to do it. My best wished to you. I look forward to visiting with you again.”

The following e-mail message was from a person who did not attend Skip’s class (because he did not hear about it prior to purchasing a “kit” log home). From: Mark McClure <mcclurm1@muohio.edu> Date: Wednesday, October 13, 1999 7:00 AM Subject: trouble on the home front. I need help!!! I just found your site and wish i [sic] found it a year ago. I always dreamed of building a log home. We started building last April and are about 99% finished. I decided to go with a large company b/c I thought they would have it together. WRONG! Here is my problem. I purachases [sic] the shadow ridge model from a major company. I wanted to have alot [sic] of windows so I could enjoy the view . We are right on a lake and I thought this is the model for me. It’s a standard model and I didn’t make any changes. It would be great if the window side of the house was stable. I can push on the wall and it gives about 3-4 inches. The company said they are willing to work with me, but they can’t seem to answer my questions. They have since changed the plans on the model and mine was the last of the rejects. If you can give any ideas that would be great. Mark Mcclure

This was Skip’s response:

“DEAR MARK, WE ARE SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT THE PROBLEMS YOU ARE HAVING. UNFORTUNATELY, YOUR CASE IS NOT UNIQUE. IRONICALLY, YOUR HOME MIGHT NOT EVEN BE BUILT WITH LOGS. THE CHANCES ARE QUITE GOOD THAT YOU R HOME IS ONLY BUILT OUT OF GIANT DOWELS (PIECES OF WOOD THAT HAVE BEEN “TURNED” ON A GIANT LATHE). THESE TYPES OF “GIANT DOWEL” HOMES ARE OFTEN BUILT WITH DOWELS THAT ARE ONLY EIGHT OR TEN FEET IN LENGTH, WITH BUTT-JOINTS EVERYWHERE IN THE WALLS. WE WISH THAT WE COULD HAVE SPOKEN WITH YOU BEFORE YOU “COMMITTED” TO DEALING WITH A “KIT” BUILDER. THERE IS A BIG DIFFERENCE BETWEEN “BUILDING” A LOG HOME, AND “PUTTING ONE TOGETHER” THAT SOMEONE ELSE HAS BUILT. THERE IS EVEN A GREATER DIFFERENCE BETWEEN “BUILDING” A LOG HOME, AND PAYING A CONTRACTOR TO PUT ONE TOGETHER FOR YOU THAT SOMEONE ELSE HAS BUILT. IN COMPARING “REAL” LOG HOMES WITH “KIT” LOG HOMES (THAT ARE OFTEN NOT EVEN BUILT WITH REAL LOGS), IN OUR OPINION IT IS MUCH EASIER, FASTER, BETTER, AND LESS EXPENSIVE TO BUILD YOUR OWN “REAL” LOG HOME. AT THIS POINT YOU ARE DEALING WITH WHAT USED TO BE ONE OF THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF LAW, WHICH IS… “CAVEAT EMPTOR.” (“LET THE BUYER BEWARE.”). UNFORTUNATELY, NOW THAT “COMMON LAW” NO LONGER EXISTS IN AMERICA, THE “EQUITY” AND “ADMIRALTY” COURTS SEEM TO HAVE ALMOST ELIMINATED THE PRINCIPLE OF “CAVEAT EMPTOR.” IN A PERVERSE SENSE, THIS MEANS THAT YOU MIGHT BE ABLE TO OBTAIN SOME SATISFACTION (A “REWARD” FOR NOT DOING ANYTHING TO OVERCOME YOUR OWN IGNORANCE ?) THROUGH THE COURTS FOR THE MISTAKE THAT “YOU” YOURSELF MADE. FORGIVE ME FOR THINKING OUT LOUD HERE… BUT WE ENCOUNTER THESE TYPES OF SITUATIONS SO OFTEN THAT WE CAN’T HELP BUT JUST SHAKE OUR HEADS IN BEWILDERMENT. WE ARE FRUSTRATED, MARK, BECAUSE WE WOULD REALLY LIKE TO HELP YOU. HOWEVER, WE DON’T HAVE ANY IDEA HOW YOUR HOME IS BUILT. WE DON’T EVEN KNOW IF YOUR HOME IS A “REAL” LOG HOME. WE WOULD NEED TO KNOW SUCH THINGS AS “WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN, HOW, WHY, HOW MANY, HOW MUCH, ETC.” WE DON’T EVEN KNOW “HOW” YOUR HOME IS DESIGNED – OR EVEN “IF” IT WAS DESIGNED. THE NAME OF THE “MODEL” (OR WHATEVER…) HAS NO MEANING TO US. THE “MODEL” NAMES ARE USUALLY “IN-HOUSE” TERMS, THAT WOULD ONLY BE USED TO FACILITATE COMMUNICATION VIA A CATALOG OF SOME SORT. MY MAIN WORRIES WOULD BE AS FOLLOWS; IF YOU MADE A SERIOUS MISTAKE IN JUDGMENT ONE AREA (BY DEALING WITH THIS COMPANY) THEN WHAT OTHER SERIOUS MISTAKES IN JUDGMENT HAVE YOU MADE REGARDING THE SAME HOME ??? ALSO, IF THIS COMPANY BUILT A HOME FOR YOU WITH WALLS THAT ARE NOT STABLE, THEN WHAT OTHER MISTAKES DID THEY MADE ??? IF POSSIBLE, WE WOULD BE MORE THAN HAPPY TO HELP YOU. HOWEVER, WE WOULD NEED TO HAVE MUCH MORE INFORMATION. HAVE YOU DISCUSSED THIS MATTER WITH AN ATTORNEY ???”

From Tom Fricke; “Dear Skip, In your class last weekend I hand-copied the essence of one of the short newspaper articles you passed around the table. It was the article about the anthropologist, Wade Davis, that quoted him as follows;

“The most important revelations of anthropology are that there are other ways of orienting yourself in the universe — profoundly different ways of thinking and being. We see the obvious and terrible spread of the generic modern industrial world and its power to crush the spirit of different peoples and cultures. We forget that when other societies are assimilated, or go extinct, we lose entire intellectual traditions – traditions that we really don’t understand. I don’t know if we can change that, but we at least have the obligation to bear witness to it – and learn from it.”

In your two-day class, you are obviously doing your part to preserve one of our American traditions that is both physical, intellectual, ethical, valuable to our society, and needed by many. When I signed up for your class I thought I was only going to learn how to build log homes correctly. Thanks to you and your profound insights regarding what you called “the human condition,” I learned much more than I ever anticipated. I have three university degrees, including a doctorate, and I must say that I learned more about “life” in your two day class than I previously learned in any class I ever attended. I have never had a better teacher. You undoubtedly realize that you are making a profound difference in this world. Don’t change a thing, Skip. Just keep doing what you are doing. My wife and oldest son will definitely be in your next class. Sincerely,

Our secretary just told us that she has probably typed enough of these letters to give you a “representative” feeling about the way people have responded to what Skip is doing in his seminars — and how he is changing people’s lives by enabling them to build their own log homes.

If you have any “specific” questions about log houses, please communicate with Skip. He will help you free of charge by phone and/or e-mail.

Otherwise, we suggest that you attend his two day class – and utilize what you will learn.

Featured Student Feedback

"Building this house has been the time of our life!! We would really like to thank LHBA for all that they did to help us achieve this amazing feat...

We are now mortgage free!!! Wow what a feeling. I never imagined that it could be done the way we did it, Mortgage free that is... 2 years ago when we sat in that classroom I never even thought that 2 years later I would be typing this in my beautiful mortgage free home...

Thank you LHBA!!!"

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